John Matthew Stafford, born February 7, 1988, plays as an American football quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL. He played college football at Georgia before the Detroit Lions selected him first overall in the 2009 NFL Draft. Stafford ranks in the top 12 all-time in pass attempts, pass completions, passing yards, and touchdowns. Impressively, he is currently fifth in passing yards per game and became the fastest player to reach 40,000 career passing yards in NFL history.
Stafford served as the Lions’ primary starter from 2009 to 2020. In 2011, he had a breakout year, becoming only the fourth quarterback to throw for over 5,000 yards in a season. That year, he also led Detroit to their first playoff appearance since 1999. He guided the Lions to additional playoff runs in 2014 and 2016. He earned Pro Bowl honors in 2014 and set an NFL record for most comeback wins in a season in 2016. After parting ways with the Lions, Stafford joined the Rams in 2021 and led them to a Super Bowl LVI victory.
If you would like to know more about Matthew Stafford, then make sure to scroll over. We will be throwing ample light on the #1 pick of the Detroit Lions in the NFL Draft.
Matthew Stafford Bio/Wiki
Real Name/Full Name | John Matthew Stafford |
Nick Name/Celebrated Name: | Matthew Stafford |
Birth Place: | Tampa, Florida, United States of America |
Date Of Birth/Birthday: | 7 February 1988 |
Age/How Old: | 35 years old |
Height/How Tall: | In Centimetres – 191 cm In Feet and Inches – 6′ 3″ |
Weight: | In Kilograms – 105 Kg In Pounds – 231 lbs |
Eye Color: | Light Brown |
Hair Color: | Light Brown |
Parents Name: | Father –John Stafford Mother –Margaret Stafford |
Siblings: | Page Clark |
School: | High park High School |
College: | University of Georgia |
Religion: | Christianity |
Nationality: | American |
Zodiac Sign: | Aquaries |
Gender: | Male |
Sexual Orientation: | Straight |
Marital Status: | Married |
Girlfriend: | N/A |
Wife/Spouse Name: | Kelly Hall |
Kids/Children Name: | Hunter Hope Stafford, Sawyer Stafford, Chandler Stafford |
Profession: | American Footbal quarterback |
Net Worth: | $70 million |
Last Updated: | February 2022 |
Birth and Family
Born on February 7, 1998, in Tampa, Florida, Matthew Stafford’s birth name was John Matthew Stafford. He is an American by nationality. His parents are John and Margaret Stafford. He also has a sibling – an elder sister named Page Clark.
After Matt’s birth, the Stafford family had to move to Dunwoody, Georgia. This was because Matt’s father, John, was attending graduate school at the University of Georgia back then. Following this, the family lived in Dallas, Texas, for a while.
Early Life and Start of Career
Matthew Stafford grew up in Highland Park, Texas, where he attended Highland Park High School. The Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw also went to the same school as Matt.
Matt’s zeal for football developed in his childhood. During his school years, he had Randy Allen as his coach. Soon, he became one of the best high school quarterbacks in the US. Subsequently, he also ranked ahead of Tim Tebow.
Additionally, in 2005, he received the MVP and Best Arm awards at the EA Sports Elite 11 Quarterback Camp. Besides, he also qualified as the EA Sports National Player of the Year. Rivals.com regarded Matthew as a five-star recruit and ranked him as the No. 1 pro-style quarterback prospect in the Class of 2006.
After Matthew completed his schooling, he enrolled at the University of Georgia. He clearly had a stellar career there. Further, he went on to become a true quarterback for the football team, Georgia Bulldogs in his freshman season. He wore Jersey #7 in Georgia.
Matthew debuted in the 2006 season opener against Western Kentucky. He went 3 of 5 passing for 40 yards and a touchdown pass in the 48–12 victory. And for the next three seasons, i.e, 2006, 2007, and 2008, Matthew played 39 matches in total. Take a look at his achievements:
- 564 pass completions for 7731 passing yards
- 51 passing touchdowns
- 141 rushing attempts for 213 rushing yards
- 6 rushing touchdowns
Thus, Matthew finished his tenure of 3 years at Georgia. He earned a 3-0 record in bowl games and a 6-3 record in rivalry games. Despite having the opportunity to pursue his senior season, Matthew decided to forgo it. Instead, he chose to enter the 2009 NFL Draft.
Matthew Stafford Awards and Recognition’s in College
Stafford received the following honors after his remarkable performance as a football quarterback.
- The SEC Freshman of the Week twice during the 2006 season
- The Rivals.com’s National Freshman of the Week (for his notable performance against Auburn)
- The University of Georgia’s 2006 Offensive Newcomer of the Year Award
- Named to the 2006 SEC Coaches’ All-Freshman Team
- The Offensive MVP of the 2006 Chick-fil-A Bowl
- The All-America in 2008 by Pro Football Weekly
- Named to the second-team All-SEC in 2008
- The MVP of the Capital One Bowl, 2009
Matthew Stafford: Professional Career
Eventually, Matthew Stafford left college. And on April 24, 2009, he agreed to sign the contract and negotiate a deal with the Detroit Lions. Thus, he became the first overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, a day before the draft was held. Reportedly, this 6-year contract contained a guaranteed amount of $41.7 million. Also, it carried a total value of roughly $78 million.
Once, famous football аnаlуѕt Меl Kіреr hаd рrеdісtеd thаt Matthew would be thе #1 рісk іn NFL. Evidently, іt’ѕ thе rеаl truth nоw. Since then, Matthew has played 11 seasons with the team. He received the NFL Comeback Player of the Year accolade in 2011. Furthermore, Matthew earned the title of Pro-Bowl Offensive Most Valuable Player in 2014. Moreover, he also rаnkеd іn thе list of Toр 100 NFL рlауеrѕ оf 2014.
2009
Оn Ѕерtеmbеr 6, 2009, thе соасh оf hіѕ tеаm dесіdеd thаt Matthew wіll remain а реrmаnеnt quаrtеrbасk. And that too, throughout the 2009 season. On September 13, 2009, Matthew made his NFL debut against the New Orleans Saints. He played 10 games during the 2009 season. He achieved 13 passing touchdowns coupled with 201 pass completions for 2267 yards.
2011
In 2011, Matthew set the Detroit Lions single-season record for passing yards by throwing for 5,038 yards. Also, he registered a career-best 41 passing touchdowns in a total of 16 games.
2012
Despite suffering а knее іnјurу, Matthew did not give up and continued playing his game. Undoubtedly, he gave tеrrіfіс реrfоrmаnсеѕ іn еvеrу ѕеаѕоn. Matthew recorded his career-best 435 pass completions for 4967 yards in 16 games in the 2012 season.
2014
Оn Јаnuаrу 14, 2014, the NFL team announced that Јіm Саldwеll would be their new football соасh. Gradually under Jim’s guidance, thе gаmерlау оf thе tеаm аnd Matthew kерt іmрrоvіng. Matthew quickly became the team’s starting quarterback. Additionally, he helped to lead his team to the playoffs in 2011, 2014, and 2016.
2017
On August 28, 2017, Matthew renegotiated and renewed his contract with the Lions for the next 5 years. He received a $135-million extension with a guaranteed amount of $92 million. As a result, he became the then-highest paid player effectively in NFL history.
2018
Before the 2018 season, the Lions appointed a new head coach, Matt Patricia. That season saw Matthew Stafford appearing in 16 games. He delivered an outstanding performance – posting 367 pass completions for 3,777 passing yards and 21 passing touchdowns.
2019
Matthew thrеw fоr over 380 уаrdѕ аlоng with 3 tоuсhdоwnѕ аgаіnѕt Аrіzоnа Саrdіnаlѕ іn the 2019 ѕеаѕоn. Following that, he threw 2 tоuсhdоwnѕ and 245 уаrdѕ аgаіnѕt Lоg Аngеlеѕ Сhаrgеrѕ in the second week. Оn Dесеmbеr 18, 2019, Matthew wаѕ іn аn іnјurеd rеѕеrvе after mіѕѕing the ѕіх gаmеѕ earlier.
2020
Overall, in the 2020 season, Stafford started all 16 games and finished with 4,084 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.
2021
On March 18, 2021, Stafford was traded to the Rams in a package involving Jared Goff, a 2021 third-round pick and two first-round picks in 2022 and 2023.
Overall, Stafford completed 26 of his 40 pass attempts for 283 yards, three passing touchdowns, and two interceptions as he earned his first championship ring in his first season with the Rams.
2022
On March 19, 2022, Stafford signed a four-year, $160 million extension with the Rams. During the offseason, Stafford underwent an elbow procedure on his right elbow after experiencing pain throughout the previous season.
Matthew Stafford: Injury History
While being in the NFL League, Matthew Stafford has had to undergo major injuries during his course of playing. However, nothing prevented him from going ahead with football. Read on to know about his injury history.
2009
- Knee Patella Dislocation (October 4, 2009) – Matthew dislocated his patella against the Bears, which cost him 2 games. Henceforth, he had to undergo minor surgery in December 2009.
- Shoulder Joint Separation (November 22, 2009) – He could play the next 2 games somehow. Nevertheless, later on, he had to sit out the final 4 with a separated shoulder.
- Shoulder Joint Separation (December 6, 2009) – Nonetheless, Matthew had to miss 4 games due to a shoulder dislocation. This happened after a hard hit against the Bengals.
2010
- Shoulder Joint Separation (September 12, 2010) – He missed 5 games due to this injury.
- Shoulder Joint Separation (November 7, 2010) – Matthew re-injured his shoulder again. Eventually, he had to undergo surgery in January 2011.
2011
- Pedal Ankle Sprain (October 23, 2011) – Although he had an ankle ailment, Matthew made sure to not miss any games.
- Hand Finger Fracture (October 30, 2011) – Exactly a week after spraining his ankle, Matthew fractured his right index finger. However, he chose to continue and play on, despite the injury.
2016
Hand Finger Dislocation (December 9, 2016) – The football quarterback suffered torn ligaments in his finger. Even though this injury came with a lot of pain, it did not cost him any games.
2019
Back Tailbone Fracture (November 3, 2019) – Matthew had to end his season abruptly in Week 9. And this was due to the fractured bones in his back.
2020
- Hand Thumb Torn Ligament (November 15, 2020) – Matthew suffered a partial tear in a ligament of his right thumb. Despite the injury, he played through in the next game.
- Chest Rib Sprain (December 13, 2020) – During Week 14, Matthew ended up injuring his ribs. Still, he did not miss any game.
- Pedal Ankle Sprain (December 26, 2020) – In spite of suffering an ankle injury, he was available for the season finale.
Matthew Stafford Contract
Matthew Stafford signed a 5-year, $135 million contract extension with the Detroit Lions on August 29, 2017. He received a sum of $92 million guaranteed. The guarantee included a $50 million signing bonus. Also, he received annual workout bonuses of $500K.
Matthew Stafford restructured his contract in 2019. Thereupon, he converted $13.2 million of his 2020 salary and roster bonuses into a signing bonus.
Matthew Stafford Net Worth
The NFL’s highest-paid player of 2017 has a huge net worth of $70 million. As per reports, he earns a salary of $27 million per annum. Matthew is one of the NFL players who made his way up to the Forbes Highest-Paid Athletes list of 2018. Moreover, he also had the 10th ranking as the world’s highest-paid athlete, with an earning of $59.5 million.
Besides, Matthew has had active deals with the likes of national sponsors. To name a few – Nike, Panini, PepsiCo, Ford Motors, Fanatics, and so on. Through these annual endorsement deals, he has earned an estimated $2 million.
Matthew Stafford Wife: Kеllу Наll
Matthew Stafford and Kеllу Наll met at Georgia. Besides being thе сhееrlеаdеr, Kelly was also the ѕіѕtеr оf Сhаd Наll. Chad Hall is an American Football coach (currently a wide receiver’s coach for the Вuffаlо Віllѕ) and former player.
It did not take much time for Matthew Stafford and Kelly to fall in love with each other. The couple tied the knot officially оn April 4, 2015.
A year later, i.e., in 2016, the duo announced about being pregnant and expecting twіn. Kelly gave birth to the twіn daughterѕ іn 2017. Matthew and Kelly named their identical first-borns Chandler and Ѕаwуеr. Kelly gave birth to their third dаughtеr іn 2018, аnd thе duo саllеd hеr Нuntеr Hope.
Later, on April 3, 2019, Kelly rеvеаlеd on Instagram thаt ѕhе hаd а brain tumor. Days later, on 21 Арrіl, ѕhе underwent a ѕurgеrу of 12 hours. Matthew took some time off after Kelly’s surgery, аnd reportedly, she іѕ fіnе nоw.
Іn 2020, Kelly аnnоunсеd about being рrеgnаnt wіth their fourth child. The baby’s birth took place on the morning of June 26, 2020. Following, Matthew and Kelly kept the baby’s name and gender secret for a week. And later on, Kelly took to Instagram to introduce their youngest daughter, Tyler Hall Stafford.
Currently, the Stafford family sits at a party of six. And Kelly gladly calls their daughters a four-person girl squad!
Matthew Stafford: House and Cars
Matthew Stafford bought his Bloomfield Township home in 2013. It sits on 1.27 acres of lakefront property, at 1867 Long Pointe Drive in Bloomfield Hills. This grand mansion houses a five-bedroom and seven-bathroom setting and has the largest infinity pool of all Michigan homes. Also, the 12,295-square-feet villa has a glass elevator, a gourmet kitchen, a wine cellar, and five fireplaces. Moreover, there is a cascading waterfall over the side which makes the mansion complete and adds to its beauty. Additionally, the indoor half basketball court built-in 1980, is a notable feature of Matt’s house. Actually, this is the original court where the Detroit Pistons played on while putting up at the Pontiac Silverdome.
Reportedly, Matthew put up this waterfront house for sale last year, at $6.5 million.
Further, Matthew owns vast properties in California, New Coast, and Atlanta. Likewise, Matthew is also the owner of a luxurious car collection. It includes giant car brands such as Audi, Bentley, Ferrari, Range Rover, and Rolls-Royce Wraith. The estimated net worth of these cars is around $4 million.
Matthew Stafford: Charity and Social Work
The American quarterback has immense and active involvement in various charity efforts. For this reason, he became the Detroit Lions’ Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee in 2018. And as a result, he earned $50K which he donated to a charity of his choice.
Over the years, Matthew Stafford has worked with the SAY Detroit foundation. This charity organization seeks to help the needy citizens of Detroit by providing them with food, shelter, and medical care. Additionally, he has also donated $1 million to the SAY Detroit Play Center in 2015.
Furthermore, by partnering with Michigan’s Blue Cross Blue Shield, Matthew has raised awareness about the ill effects of childhood obesity. This was mainly an initiative to promote healthy living among the youth.
In the same vein, Matthew and Kelly donated $350K to a social justice initiative in 2020. This was an initiative by their alma mater – the University of Georgia.
Matthew Stafford: Most Googled Facts
If you wish to know about the commonly searched facts on Google about Matthew Stafford, then scroll over.
Matthew Stafford Age
Matthew Stafford, the talented NFL quarterback, was born on February 7, 1988, which makes him currently 35 years old. Over the years, his age and experience have only served to enhance his skills and leadership on the field. As Stafford continues to make an impact in the professional football arena, fans and experts alike look forward to witnessing his ongoing growth and contribution to the sport. His age, coupled with his impressive track record, is a testament to his enduring commitment and passion for the game.
Matthew Stafford Birthday
Matthew Stafford, the accomplished NFL quarterback, celebrates his birthday on February 7th. Born in 1988, Stafford has carved out an impressive career in professional football, showcasing his skills and dedication to the sport year after year. Fans and teammates alike join in commemorating his special day, as they look forward to more thrilling performances and achievements from this talented athlete.
Matthew Stafford Real Name
Matthew Stafford’s full name is John Matthew Stafford. As a prominent NFL quarterback, he is widely recognized by his middle name, “Matthew,” which has become synonymous with his impressive skills and achievements on the football field.
Matthew Stafford Zodiac
Matthew Stafford, born on February 7, 1988, falls under the zodiac sign of Aquarius. Aquarians are often known for their innovative and independent nature, traits that Stafford has displayed throughout his successful career as an NFL quarterback. His ability to adapt and excel in various situations on the field can be seen as a reflection of his Aquarius personality.
Matthew Stafford Height
At an impressive height of 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), Matthew Stafford stands out with his towering stature. This remarkable height not only adds to his on-field presence but also plays a significant role in his overall success and performance in the world of professional football.
Matthew Stafford Weight
Matthew Stafford, the exceptional NFL quarterback, has a solid build that contributes to his performance on the field. Weighing in at 105 kilograms (220 pounds), Stafford’s weight complements his height of 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters). This combination of height and weight allows him to generate power and stability during gameplay, making him an effective and formidable presence on the football field.
Matthew Stafford Physical Stats
Matthew Stafford’s physical attributes play a significant role in his success as an NFL quarterback. Boasting light brown eyes and hair, Stafford’s overall appearance is complemented by his well-built physique. His biceps measure 16 inches, while his chest spans 44 inches and his waist is 35 inches. These dimensions highlight his strength and athletic ability, which are essential for a player in his position. Furthermore, Stafford wears a size 14 (US) shoe, reflecting his impressive height of 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters). Overall, Stafford’s physical stats are indicative of his dedication to maintaining a strong and fit body to excel in the demanding world of professional football.
Matthew Stafford Residence
The American football player resides in Dunwoody, Tampa.
Matthew Stafford Wife
On April 4, 2015, Matthew Stafford and Kelly Hall exchanged their wedding vows. Presently, the couple leads a happy life with their four daughters – Chandler, Sawyer, Hunter Hope, and Tyler.
Matthew Stafford Trade
The Detroit Lions declared their long-awaited trade of Matthew Stafford to the Los Angeles Rams in March 2021.
The trade was consummated in January. This took place after Matthew asked the Lions to explore trade options following a third consecutive losing season. Nonetheless, it could not be processed until the 2021 league year began.
Matthew has led the Detroit franchise to 3 grand playoff appearances but failed to win any postseason game. Since he did not want to go through another rebuild, he thought of starting afresh for his own good.
Matthew Stafford Social Media
The football quarterback is quite active on social media. He has several followers on both Facebook and Twitter. Though he is not on Instagram, Kelly has an active social presence on the platform.
Matthew Stafford Media Career
Well, the Pro-Bowl MVP has a weekly segment on Detroit radio station WJR. He graces The Mitch Albom Show with Mitch Albom on Mondays.
Matthew Stafford Controversy and Rumors
He has hardly been into any controversies or significant rumors to date.