Matthew Stafford praises Lions: Both teams thrive post-trade
Ex-Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is beaming with pride as he watches his former team thrive. During a recent appearance on the “Let’s Go!” podcast hosted by Jim Gray, the current Los Angeles Rams signal-caller reflected on his time with the Lions—the franchise that selected him first overall in the 2009 NFL Draft, relied on him for 12 seasons, and ultimately traded him in a blockbuster deal.
A New Perspective on the Trade
Stafford, now a front-runner for this season’s NFL MVP award, embraced the prevailing narrative surrounding the 2021 trade that sent him to Los Angeles. He sees it as a win-win situation for both teams involved.
“Obviously, I’m happy to be where I am, and I feel like the Lions have capitalized on a lot of the picks and players that they were able to acquire in that trade,” Stafford remarked. He acknowledged the Lions’ recent success, stating, “Their franchise is as good as it’s been, ever, in the last handful of years.”
The former No. 1 overall pick emphasized how both franchises seem to have achieved their respective goals through the trade. “So, two successful teams, really good coaches, good football programs at the moment, and, yeah, it looks like one that both sides got what they were looking for out of it,” he noted. “And I think as time goes on, we’ll keep looking back on it saying the same thing because it seems to have worked out for both teams.”
Jared Goff’s Resurgence
It’s difficult to dispute Stafford’s optimistic view. Quarterback Jared Goff, initially perceived as a mere throw-in during the trade, has undergone a remarkable career revival in Detroit. His leadership has been pivotal in transforming the Lions into a competitive squad.
Detroit’s turnaround has been impressive. After starting the 2022 season with a dismal 1-6 record, the team rebounded to finish 9-8. The following year, they built on that momentum, clinching the NFC North title with a stellar 12-5 record. In 2024, the Lions achieved a franchise-best 15-2 mark, securing their second consecutive division championship. Goff has undeniably been a key contributor to this resurgence.
Draft Picks Fueling Success
In addition to acquiring Goff, the Lions also gained several valuable draft assets through the trade—including first-round picks in 2022 and 2023. These selections have blossomed into franchise cornerstones such as Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, and Jameson Williams. Each has played an integral role in Detroit’s ascent back to prominence.
Stafford’s Impact with the Rams
On the other side of the trade, Stafford has fulfilled the Rams’ vision for him, leading head coach Sean McVay’s squad to a Super Bowl victory in his first season with the team. The success of both franchises post-trade underscores the enduring impact of this historic deal.
As Stafford continues to shine in Los Angeles and the Lions blossom into a formidable contender, it’s clear that both sides have indeed emerged victorious from this high-stakes exchange.
