As the 2026 NFL season unfolds, Kelly Stafford is embracing every moment of her husband Matthew’s illustrious career. The Los Angeles Rams quarterback is entering his 18th year in the league, and his wife, Kelly, shared her sentiments exclusively with PEOPLE magazine, reflecting on the family’s experiences and the significance of this season.
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Kelly expressed the bittersweet feelings that accompany Matthew’s long-standing career, stating, “Every season now I will say I’m treating it like the last.” This reflection comes after a tough season-opening loss against the San Francisco 49ers in Australia on 10 September. With nearly two decades in the NFL, Kelly acknowledges the challenges and joys that have defined their journey together.
Matthew Stafford, who was selected first overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2009 NFL Draft, enjoyed 12 seasons with the team before joining the Rams in 2021. Since then, he has led the Rams to remarkable achievements, notably securing a Super Bowl victory in his inaugural season in February 2022. During this time, he and Kelly have built a family, welcoming four daughters: twins Sawyer and Chandler, aged nine, Hunter, eight, and Tyler, six.
For Kelly, witnessing the excitement of game days alongside their daughters has become a treasured part of their shared experience. “Now that all of my girls understand football and what their dad does… that is truly special,” Kelly remarked, emphasising how their children are growing to appreciate Matthew’s career in the sport. Their daughters often encourage him, reportedly saying things like, “Daddy, you can’t not play. What do you mean? You have to play,” which brings a smile to Kelly’s face.
As Matthew continues his football journey, Kelly cherishes each match while pondering the unpredictability of his career. She noted that with every game, she approaches it as though it could be a last—whether it’s at home or against specific opponents. “So this season, honestly, we are going to make it to as many games as we can again,” she said, highlighting the importance of creating lasting memories as a family.
Kelly’s love for watching her husband play is palpable; she describes it as one of the greatest joys of her life. “I just love watching him play. I really do,” she shared, affirming her commitment to support him as he continues on the field. From the sidelines, Kelly remains one of his biggest cheerleaders.
Game days are a celebration of family for the Staffords, with Kelly and their daughters often spotted in spirited outfits, ready to support Matthew. The moments they share before kickoff are filled with affection, as hugs and laughter fill the air. Kelly remarked, “Bringing our girls into it just makes it that much more special to both of us,” acknowledging the joy she sees in Matthew as he interacts with their children before games.
“The feeling of taking the girls to the game and watching their dad run over, that fills my soul with so much joy,” she continued. However, she also grapples with the knowledge that these moments are finite. “I’m going to completely miss it when it’s gone so much, but I also have to prepare for that moment,” Kelly said, underlining her understanding of the transient nature of sports careers.
As the season progresses, Kelly Stafford is committed to enjoying every part of the journey with her family. With a heartfelt perspective, she concluded, “Treating this season like it’s the last of everything. That’s how I’m looking at it right now.” As they navigate this chapter together, the Stafford family’s bond continues to strengthen amid the thrilling and unpredictable world of professional football.
