Matthew Stafford Trade Rumors Led to Bullying of Their Children, Says Kelly Stafford

Amid Matthew Stafford’s trade speculation last year, Kelly Stafford was targeted as a reason for the Rams didn’t want to extend the former’s contract.

Matthew Stafford Trade Rumors Led to Bullying of Their Children, Says Kelly Stafford

Matthew Stafford poses with his wife and children before the Los Angeles Rams game in Atlanta, Georgia, on December 29, 2025. (Image via Getty)

In Short
  • Kelly Stafford revealed that her children faced bullying at school due to trade rumors surrounding Matthew Stafford.
  • She noted a misogynistic undertone in the media's portrayal of her as the reason for her husband's potential trade.
  • Matthew Stafford is expected to remain the Rams' starting quarterback for the 2026 season, with a possible contract extension on the horizon.

Last season, Matthew Stafford was one of the most sought-after trade candidates as rumors swirled about his departure from the Los Angeles Rams. In a podcast last August, Kelly Stafford shed light on the behind-the-scenes of the family’s life during the offseason.

In an episode of the “Sunday Sports Club,” Kelly acknowledged the difficulties that her and Matthew’s children faced during the time. The pair share twins Sawyer and Chandler, both 9, daughters Hunter, 7, and Tyler. She noted that there was a misogynistic undertone to the fans’ interpretation of why her husband was being traded.

She went on to reveal that her children were picked on at school by others who named her as the reason for the quarterback’s proposed trade. Kelly, recalled to host Allison Kuch:

There was speculation of [whether] Matthew is getting traded this past year. [There were rumors] that ‘his wife was the problem,’ and that’s part of the reason…The kids at school were picking on them, like, ‘You’re gonna have to move because your mom is an issue, like, she’s too loud and whatever.’

The quarterback eventually signed a deal with the Rams, starting for them in one of the best performances of his career. Stafford led the league in passing yards (4,707 yards) and touchdowns (46) with a completion rate of 65.0%.

He was selected as the regular season MVP, stating that he will return to the field for one more year. He led the Rams into the playoffs before bowing out at the NFC Championship game to the eventual champions, the Seattle Seahawks.

In related news, Kelly recently addressed why she stopped doing her viral podcast, noting that while she missed it, she’s happy not having to worry about what kind of articles and headlines will be manufactured from her content once it drops.

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Matthew Stafford set to be the Rams’ starter in 2026

Despite the buzz surrounding rookie quarterback Ty Simpson, all signs continue to point toward Matthew Stafford remaining the Los Angeles Rams’ starting quarterback heading into the 2026 season. Former NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb recently reinforced that belief during an appearance on The Kay Adams Show.

Matthew Stafford
Matthew Stafford (Image via Getty Images)

McNabb compared Simpson’s current situation to his early years at Alabama, where patience and development were part of the process. According to McNabb, the Rams drafted Simpson with the future in mind rather than expecting him to immediately compete for the starting role.

Stafford, meanwhile, continues to command respect inside the organization because of his leadership, experience, and ability to operate Sean McVay‘s offense at a high level. Even with questions surrounding his long-term future over the past year, the Rams have consistently shown confidence in the veteran signal-caller whenever he has been healthy. McNabb even suggested that a contract extension could arrive soon.

Stafford recently answered an Instagram story question regarding Matthew’s future in the NFL with a picture of the quarterback with their girls and the caption, ‘up to these 4 ladies… but I could see that happening.’

The Rams’ approach makes sense considering Stafford’s importance to their championship aspirations. When healthy, he remains one of the league’s most reliable veteran quarterbacks, capable of elevating the offense with his arm strength, football IQ, and composure under pressure. His chemistry with McVay also remains a major factor in the team’s offensive identity.

As for Simpson, the rookie will first need to earn the backup job over Stetson Bennett while adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. Although his final season at Alabama showcased his talent and potential, the Rams are clearly prioritizing long-term growth rather than rushing him onto the field.

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