Matthew Stafford Net Worth and Salary: How Much Does He Earn in 2024?

Matthew Stafford’s net worth is a hot topic for many. How much does the famed NFL quarterback earn, and where does his wealth come from? Let’s dive in.

Quick Facts

What is the Net Worth Of Matthew Stafford in 2024?

Matthew Stafford’s net worth in 2024 is estimated at $150 million, making him one of the wealthiest NFL players.

This impressive fortune places him among some of the wealthiest athletes. He stands out from other NFL stars due to his massive contracts and intelligent investments. To put it in perspective, here are a few related figures:

• Eli Manning
• Patrick Mahomes
• Drew Brees
• Dak Prescott

In conclusion, Matthew Stafford is undoubtedly one of the Richest NFL Player figures in 2024, backed by his successful career and strategic financial moves.

What are Matthew Stafford’s salary and contracts?

Matthew Stafford has had a distinguished career, marked by significant earnings and contributions to the teams he has played for.

Let’s analyze his financials, focusing on his time with the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams.

Career Earnings Overview

Matthew Stafford’s total career earnings amount to $153,935,000, with an average annual salary of $18,250,000.

His contract values reflect his pivotal role as a quarterback, particularly during his tenure with the Lions before moving to the Rams.

Detroit Lions (2009 – 2020)

During his 12 years with the Lions, Stafford accumulated a remarkable $219,000,000 in earnings. His salary progression illustrates his growth as a key player:

• In 2009, Stafford’s base salary was $3,100,000, a modest start that set the foundation for future negotiations.
• By 2013, he earned $4,000,000 in base salary with a hefty $13,820,000 prorated bonus, indicating a significant rise in his value.
• The peak of his earning potential occurred in 2017 when he commanded a $1,000,000 base salary alongside a staggering $15,500,000 prorated bonus, indicative of the team’s reliance on him.
• His last season with the Lions in 2020 earned him a $7,800,000 base salary and $13,000,000 as a prorated bonus.

Stafford’s tenure with the Lions included various bonuses that contributed to his total earnings, with a guaranteed salary of $90,500,000.

Los Angeles Rams (2021 – Present)

Transitioning to the Rams in 2021, Stafford continued to showcase his prowess:

• In his first season with the Rams, he earned a base salary of $9,500,000 and a $10,000,000 roster bonus.
• In 2022, he received a base salary of $1,500,000, enhanced by a significant prorated bonus of $12,000,000.
• Stafford’s base salary remained at $1,500,000 for 2023, but he received an impressive $12,000,000 prorated bonus and $6,500,000 option bonus.
• As of 2024, his salary has escalated significantly to $23,500,000, with a total cap figure of $46,166,666, reflecting his high-value status within the team.

Matthew Stafford’s financial journey through the NFL illustrates his growth as an elite quarterback and the strategic financial management employed by both the Lions and Rams.

With total cash paid exceeding $422,000,000, Stafford’s career exemplifies the financial success achievable through talent and dedication in professional football. His story is one of commitment and reward in a highly competitive environment.

Contract Overview

Current Contract

Stafford’s current contract, signed in 2022, is an extension worth  $160 million over four years, translating to an average annual salary (APY) of $40 million.

Stafford’s contract, which includes fully guaranteed money of $63 million, ranks 16th among quarterbacks in the league, illustrating his elite status.

Stafford’s 2024 salary cap charge is projected at $46,166,666, representing 17.96% of the team’s cap, which highlights his substantial impact on the team’s financial structure.

Salary Breakdown

The detailed breakdown of Stafford’s salary reveals the strategic allocation of funds across the contract years:

• 2022: At age 34, Stafford earned a base salary of $1.5 million with a prorated bonus of $12 million, resulting in a total cap of $13.5 million.
• 2023: As he turned 35, his base salary remained at $1.5 million, but the prorated bonus increased, pushing his cap to $20 million. This year, a roster bonus of $6.5 million also came into play.
• 2024: At age 36, Stafford’s base salary jumps significantly to $23.5 million, alongside a prorated bonus of $16,166,666, leading to a total cap hit of $46,166,666.
• 2025 and 2026: The following years maintain high values, with base salaries of $23 million and $26 million, respectively, showcasing a structured escalation designed to balance the financial load over time.

Guarantees and Earnings

Stafford’s contract structure is notable for its guarantees. He has accumulated  $234,550,000 in guarantees throughout his career, reflecting his reliability and performance consistency.

Stafford has reached an impressive total of $328 million in career earnings, with potential earnings projected at $422 million if he fulfills the remaining years of his contract.

Cash Flow Dynamics

Examining the cash flow illustrates how Stafford’s earnings are expected to unfold:

• He was scheduled to receive $38.5 million in 2022, which set a solid financial precedent for subsequent years.
• The following years reflect a steady increase, with cash payouts estimated at $27.5 million in 2023, $31 million in 2024, and similar amounts consistent through 2026. The cumulative cash flow shows an upward trend from $38.5 million in 2022 to a total expected payout of $160 million by 2026.

Contract Adjustments and Implications

Stafford and the Rams recently adjusted his contract on July 31, 2024. This revision pushed forward $5 million from 2025 and reduced the cap charge for 2024 by approximately $3.33 million. These maneuvers are crucial for managing the team’s overall budget while ensuring that Stafford remains compensated relatively for his contributions.

Overview of Matthew Stafford

Matthew Stafford, born February 7, 1988, is a prominent NFL quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams.

He began his collegiate career with the Georgia Bulldogs and was the first overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. Stafford ranks among the top 12 in pass attempts, completions, passing yards, and touchdowns.

Notably, he is the fastest player to achieve 40,000 career passing yards. During his tenure with the Lions from 2009 to 2020, he earned Pro Bowl honors and led the team to the playoffs three times before winning Super Bowl LVI with the Rams in 2021.

Early life

Matthew Stafford, born in Tampa, Florida, showcased his exceptional talent early on. After moving to Dunwoody, Georgia, for his father’s graduate studies, he settled in Dallas, Texas, where he attended Highland Park High School alongside MLB pitcher Clayton Kershaw.

Coached by Randy Allen, Stafford emerged as one of the top high school quarterbacks in the 2006 class, even ranked ahead of notable players like Tim Tebow. In 2005, he led his team to an impressive 15–0 record, clinching the UIL 4A Division I State Championship.

Despite missing three games due to injury, Stafford amassed over 4,000 passing yards and earned accolades, such as being named to the Parade All-America Team and the USA. Today Pre-Season Super 25.

His remarkable performance garnered him a five-star rating from Rivals.com, solidifying his status as his class’s No. 1 pro-style quarterback prospect. Analyst Mel Kiper Jr. accurately predicted Stafford would be the first overall pick in the NFL draft.

College career

In the 2006 season, Matthew Stafford made history as the first true freshman quarterback to start for the University of Georgia since Quincy Carter in 1998. He debuted in the season opener against Western Kentucky, completing 3 of 5 passes for 40 yards and a touchdown.

After becoming the starter following injuries to Joe Tereshinski III, Stafford showcased his talent against ranked opponents, notably leading Georgia to a 37–15 upset over #5 Auburn.

He concluded his first year with 1,749 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and 13 interceptions, culminating in a come-from-behind victory in the Chick-fil-A Bowl against Virginia Tech.

In the 2007 season, Matthew Stafford showcased his talent as the starting quarterback for the Georgia Bulldogs. He threw for 234 yards and two touchdowns in the season opener against the Oklahoma State Cowboys, leading to a 35–14 victory.

Despite a setback against South Carolina, Stafford secured a thrilling overtime win against Alabama, connecting with Mikey Henderson for the decisive score. The Bulldogs achieved a remarkable six-game winning streak, defeating rivals including #9 Florida, Auburn, and Georgia Tech.

Stafford ended the season with 2,523 passing yards and 19 touchdowns, propelling Georgia to an 11–2 record and a #2 ranking in the Final AP Poll.

In the 2008 season, Matthew Stafford was named to Athlon Sports’ pre-season Heisman Favorites Others To Watch list.

The Georgia Bulldogs began the season ranked #1 in the pre-season coaches and AP Poll for the first time. Stafford led Georgia to an 11-game winning streak before losing to #8 Alabama and the eventual National Champion Florida Gators.

He achieved personal bests with 407 passing yards and five touchdowns against Georgia Tech. Stafford concluded the season with a conference-leading 235 pass completions, 3,459 passing yards, and a record 25 touchdowns before declaring for the 2009 NFL Draft.

Professional career

NFL Draft

In April 2009, Matthew Stafford made headlines as he agreed to terms with the Detroit Lions to become the first overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, a decision anticipated by analysts since early predictions.

Stafford was notably the fourth player from Georgia to achieve this milestone, marking the first time since Harry Babcock in 1953. His six-year contract included a remarkable $41.7 million in guaranteed money, setting a record at the time, and had a total value of up to $78 million.

This deal was finalized less than 24 hours before the draft, underscoring the urgency and excitement surrounding his selection.

Detroit Lions

In the 2009 season, Lions head coach Jim Schwartz named Matthew Stafford the starting quarterback, marking him as the first rookie to start in Week 1 since Greg Landry in 1968.

Stafford’s debut saw him complete 16 37 passes for 205 yards with three interceptions. He achieved his first victory against the Washington Redskins, breaking a 19-game losing streak.

On November 22, Stafford threw five touchdowns against the Cleveland Browns, becoming the youngest quarterback to do so. Despite injuries, he finished the season with 2,267 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 20 interceptions, while the Lions ended with a 2–14 record.

In the 2013 NFL season, Matthew Stafford signed a three-year, $53 million extension with the Detroit Lions, securing $41.5 million guaranteed through 2017. He achieved notable milestones, including 14,069 passing yards in his first 49 games, surpassing Kurt Warner.

Stafford set a record with 1,214 completions over 50 games and finished second in 300-yard passing performances with 19. Despite leading the Lions to a 5–3 record mid-season, they ended with a disappointing 7–9 record, resulting in the firing of head coach Jim Schwartz. Stafford concluded the season with 4,650 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions.

In the 2017 season, Matthew Stafford solidified his status as a top quarterback by signing a 5-year, $135 million extension with $92 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history at the time on August 28, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history at that time.

He showcased his skills throughout the season, notably throwing for 292 yards and four touchdowns in a Week 1 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Stafford reached significant milestones, including his 200th career touchdown and becoming the fastest player to achieve 3,000 career completions.

Despite a strong performance that included 4,446 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, the Lions finished 9–7, missing the playoffs.

In the 2020 season, Matthew Stafford faced several challenges, including a false-positive COVID-19 test at training camp.

He returned to action in Week 1, throwing for 297 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in a 27–23 loss to the Chicago Bears. Notably, he led the Lions to a 26–23 victory against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3, marking the team’s first win since October 2019.

Throughout the season, Stafford showcased his skills with 4,084 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions despite facing injuries, including a concussion evaluation and an ankle injury in Week 16 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Los Angeles Rams

In the 2021 NFL season, the Los Angeles Rams experienced a significant transformation with the acquisition of Matthew Stafford. Stafford made a remarkable debut after a trade involving Jared Goff and multiple draft picks. He led the Rams to a 34–14 victory over the Chicago Bears, earning his first NFC Offensive Player of the Week honor since 2009.

He finished the regular season with impressive stats: 4,886 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions, setting franchise records in multiple categories. Under his leadership, the Rams secured the NFC West title with a 12–5 record.

In the playoffs, Stafford achieved his first postseason victory against the Arizona Cardinals. He guided the Rams to a Super Bowl victory over the Cincinnati Bengals with a final score of 23–20, securing his first championship ring.

He completed the postseason with 1,188 passing yards, marking a historic achievement in NFL history.

In the 2022 NFL season, Matthew Stafford signed a four-year, $160 million extension with the Rams. He faced challenges, including an elbow procedure during the offseason. In the season opener against the Buffalo Bills, he threw for 240 yards and one touchdown but had three interceptions, contributing to a 31–10 loss.

Stafford suffered a concussion in Week 9, causing him to miss the subsequent game. He returned in Week 11 but left with another concussion, ultimately being placed on injured reserve due to a spinal cord contusion.

Stafford’s performance included 2,087 passing yards, ten touchdowns, and eight interceptions, as the Rams finished with a disappointing 5–12 record.

In the 2023 season, Matthew Stafford returned as the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams amidst retirement rumors due to past injuries. He had a strong start, throwing for 334 yards in a Week 1 victory over the Seattle Seahawks.

After a setback in Week 8 against the Dallas Cowboys, where he suffered a sprained U.C.L., Stafford bounced back in Week 11 with a win against the Seahawks. By the end of the regular season, he amassed 3,965 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, leading the Rams to a 10–7 record and a Wild Card playoff spot.

Stafford faced his former team in the playoffs, the Detroit Lions, but the Rams were eliminated in a narrow 24–23 loss.

Personal life

Matthew Stafford, a prominent NFL quarterback, has made significant contributions on and off the field. He met Kelly Hall, a cheerleader and sister of former NFL player Chad Hall, and they married on April 4, 2015.

The couple has four daughters. In April 2019, Kelly revealed she had a brain tumor, leading to a 12-hour surgery later that month. Stafford took time off from the Lions during this challenging period.

Philanthropically, Stafford donated $1 million to the SAY Detroit Play Center in 2015 and was the Lions’ Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee in 2018. Before the 2020 NFL season, the family contributed $1.5 million to the University of Georgia for social justice initiatives.

They also funded a $1 million educational center in Detroit around 2021. Notably, Stafford is the godfather of Dylan Raiola, the top football recruit for 2024, and is set to appear in Netflix’s series Quarterback during the 2023 NFL season.

Real Estate

Matthew Stafford has kept himself occupied since making his way to Los Angeles. The former Detroit Lions quarterback led the Los Angeles Rams to a Super Bowl victory and secured a lucrative four-year, $160 million contract that extends through 2026. Stafford’s real estate ventures are equally impressive, having invested over $69 million in five properties within the exclusive, guard-gated community of Hidden Hills.

Notable among these are a modern farmhouse and an adjacent winery estate, along with two homes previously owned by music icon Aubrey “Drake” Graham.

At 36, Stafford and his wife, Kelly, recently sold a stunning mansion for $21 million to private aviation executive Bill Papariella. They are now looking to streamline their real estate holdings by listing one of their 1950s ranch-style houses for $5.7 million.

This property was acquired for $5 million, while the adjacent home cost an additional $6 million, totaling $11 million for both—significantly above Drake’s original asking price of $7.4 million.

The house currently on the market is over 3,600 square feet and features four bedrooms and five baths, complemented by hardwood floors and high ceilings. Its outdoor amenities include a heated pool, barbecue area, and guesthouse.

Prospective buyers also have the opportunity to purchase an adjoining 2-acre estate, which consists of a 2,400-square-foot home with rustic charm.

Hidden Hills has become a favored enclave for Rams players, including notable teammates like Sean McVay, Cooper Kupp, Jalen Ramsey, and Aaron Donald.

The Staffords also own a Tuscan-inspired vacation property in Newport Coast, showcasing their commitment to luxury living in California.

Career Awards and Honors

In collegiate football, the player was recognized as a First-team All-American in 2008 and earned Second-team All-SEC honors the same year.

Transitioning to the NFL, he clinched the Super Bowl champion (LVI) title and was a crucial player in the NFC Championship (2021).

His resilience was highlighted when he received the NFL—Comeback Player of the Year Award in 2011.

Throughout his career, he has been selected for the Pro Bowl twice, in 2014 and 2023, and made a mark on the Detroit Lions All-Time Team. He ranked impressively in the NFL Top 100 Players, peaking at No. 27 in 2022.

Among his numerous records, he holds the title for the most passing touchdowns in a single game by a rookie quarterback, with five touchdowns.

Notably, he became the fastest player to reach 50,000 career passing yards, achieving this milestone in 183 games played.

His tenure with the Los Angeles Rams also saw him set franchise records for most touchdown passes in a single season (41) and most passing yards in a single season (4,886), underscoring his exceptional talent and impact on the field.

Social Media Accounts

FAQs About Matthew Stafford

How many rings does Matthew Stafford have?

Matthew Stafford has won 1 championship in his career.

Does Matthew Stafford have twins?

NFL star quarterback Matthew Stafford and his wife, Kelly Stafford, have a long-standing relationship that originated during their college years.

The couple met while attending the University of Georgia and tied the knot in 2015. They are proud parents of four children: 7-year-old twins Sawyer and Chandler, Hunter, age 5, and their youngest, Tyler, who celebrated his fourth birthday on June 26.

What kind of brain tumor did Stafford have?

An MRI ultimately revealed that Stafford was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma, a benign brain tumor also referred to as vestibular schwannoma.

This tumor was affecting several of her cranial nerves, contributing to the symptoms she was experiencing.

How long was Matthew Stafford a lion?

Matthew Stafford, the first overall selection in the 2009 NFL Draft, enjoyed a 12-season tenure with the Detroit Lions before his trade to the Los Angeles Rams.

However, he does not anticipate a warm welcome when his current team faces off against his former franchise in the NFC Wild Card Game this Sunday.

How many years does Matthew Stafford have left?

In 2022, following the team’s victorious Super Bowl season, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford signed a contract extension.

This four-year agreement secures his position with the team through the conclusion of the 2025-2026 football season.

Conclusion

Matthew Stafford’s financial success combines his NFL career and intelligent investments. His story inspires many aspiring athletes.

For more on his financial journey, visit NFL Player Fortune. Feel free to comment, share, and explore our site more.