Colts Make Historic Trade for Matthew Stafford, Securing Star QB on $93.5M Deal – Anthony Richardson Departs After Turning Down 49ers’ Offer”
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves across the NFL landscape, the Indianapolis Colts have acquired veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford from the Los Angeles Rams in a blockbuster trade that could redefine the AFC playoff picture.
The deal, finalized late Tuesday night, sees the Colts sending their 2025 first-round pick, a conditional 2026 second-rounder, and veteran cornerback Kenny Moore II to the Rams in exchange for the 36-year-old Super Bowl-winning quarterback. The move signals the Colts’ all-in mentality as they seek to capitalize on a roster brimming with young talent and a stout defense.
Stafford, who led the Rams to a Super Bowl LVI title, is expected to bring leadership, experience, and a rocket arm to a Colts offense that has lacked stability under center since the sudden retirement of Andrew Luck in 2019. Despite battling injuries in recent seasons, Stafford has shown he can still play at an elite level when healthy.
Colts head coach Shane Steichen expressed his excitement during a brief media appearance: “Matthew is a proven leader and a fierce competitor. His presence in the locker room and on the field is going to be invaluable.”
For the Rams, the move signals a shift toward a youth-driven rebuild. With the departure of Stafford, the team will likely turn to young signal-caller Stetson Bennett or explore the 2025 draft for their next franchise QB.
This trade marks the most aggressive quarterback acquisition.
