TOUCH DOWN: The Rams’ two key positions are facing serious issues ahead of their 2025 Super Bowl push, after they signed quarterback Matthew Stafford for a fifth season after fulfilling his goal for a…

The Los Angeles Rams made headlines this week by re-signing veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford for a fifth season, but the celebratory mood is shadowed by serious concerns at two critical positions—cornerback and offensive line—threatening to derail their 2025 Super Bowl aspirations before the campaign even begins.

Stafford, 37, was brought back on a restructured two-year deal, signaling that head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead believe the veteran still has enough in the tank to lead one more serious run. The move follows Stafford’s strong 2024 campaign in which he threw for over 4,100 yards and 29 touchdowns, helping the Rams to a divisional round appearance. The quarterback, who led the Rams to a Super Bowl LVI victory in 2022, had previously hinted at retirement after fulfilling what he once called “the final chapter” of his career goals.

But while Stafford’s return brings experience and stability under center, the team is grappling with glaring holes that could undermine their championship ambitions.

Secondary in Shambles

The Rams’ secondary was already a soft spot last season, and things have only gotten worse. The departure of veteran cornerback Darious Williams in free agency, coupled with the regression of 2023 first-round pick Derion Kendrick, has left the defensive backfield alarmingly thin.

Sources inside the organization say there’s a growing sense of urgency to bring in a proven lockdown corner, with rumors swirling around potential trades. With NFC rivals like the 49ers and Lions boasting deep receiving corps, the Rams can ill afford to field a patchwork secondary.

Offensive Line Turmoil

Equally concerning is the instability on the offensive line. The retirement of right tackle Rob Havenstein and the continued injury woes of left guard Steve Avila have left Stafford’s protection unit in flux. The Rams used a second-round pick on Oklahoma’s Jordan Savery, but he’s expected to need at least a year of development.

Stafford has always thrived behind a solid front five—without it, his efficiency and durability come into question. With a quarterback of his age and injury history, even small cracks in the offensive line could spell disaster.

Super Bowl Window: Open, But Narrow

Despite these issues, the Rams still have key pieces in place. Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua form one of the league’s most dynamic receiving duos, and defensive tackle Kobie Turner continues to emerge as a force in the middle. Yet, with Aaron Donald’s retirement finally official as of March, the Rams’ margin for error has never been thinner.

The NFC remains wide open, and the Rams’ re-signing of Stafford sends a clear message: they believe the Super Bowl window is still open. But unless they shore up the back end of their defense and solidify the line protecting their aging signal-caller, it may be nothing more than a mirage.