As Matthew Stafford steps into his 16th NFL season, the veteran quarterback continues to command respect and admiration from peers and fans alike. Among those who hold him in high regard is Caleb Williams, a fervent admirer who has followed Stafford's career closely since his youth.
Caleb Williams' Admiration
Caleb Williams isn’t shy about his admiration for Stafford. "Matthew Stafford is Matthew Stafford," Williams exclaims. "Aaron Rodgers—right now in the game—is my No. 1 QB. ... Matthew is top-two in the league. I give him his respect." Such praise from Williams underlines Stafford’s standing amongst the elite quarterbacks in today’s NFL.
Williams is particularly taken by Stafford's command and precision on the field. "I mean, he's unbelievable. Like, there's a couple of plays where he'll go play action ... he has the linebacker on a string, like he wants the backer to go here, and he'll throw it right behind his head with the perfect touch, perfect velocity," he explains. This ability to manipulate defenses with skillful passing and tactical awareness is one of the many traits that have earned Stafford a place amongst the top quarterbacks in the eyes of many young players.
Stafford's Remarkable Career
Stafford’s career statistics speak volumes about his prowess on the field. Entering the 2024 season, he ranks 11th all-time in both career passing yards and career touchdown passes—a testament to his consistency and excellence over the years. Despite these impressive numbers, Stafford has been selected for only two Pro Bowls and has no All-Pro selections, a fact that might surprise some given his accomplishments and skill level.
After spending his first 12 years with the Detroit Lions, Stafford made a significant transition to the Los Angeles Rams. It was with the Rams that Stafford truly cemented his legacy. In his very first season with the team, he led the Rams to a Super Bowl title. This achievement not only highlighted Stafford’s talent but also his resilience and ability to thrive under new and challenging circumstances.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Stafford’s contributions have not gone unnoticed by his peers. He was voted the 42nd best player in the league in the NFL Top 100 Ranking. This recognition from fellow players underscores the respect Stafford has garnered throughout his career. For a quarterback who has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and leadership, such an acknowledgment is both fitting and well-earned.
Expressing his frustrations about the lack of broader recognition for Stafford’s abilities, Williams states, "I was not happy. I don't think I can name two quarterbacks, two, three quarterbacks that play the position better than Matthew Stafford." This sentiment resonates with many who have followed Stafford’s journey, acknowledging that his contributions to the game extend far beyond the accolades he has received.
As Stafford continues to write his story in the NFL, the admiration and respect from fellow players like Caleb Williams highlight the indelible impact he has made. His ranking among the top quarterbacks, the praise from rising stars, and his triumphant achievements with the Rams—all combine to solidify Stafford’s status as one of the game’s greats.