Despite Contract Issues, Matthew Stafford Attends OTAs
Copyright Source:
Yueke
Tue, May 21, 2024
PHOTO: Yueke
Despite his unresolved contract issues, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford attended the start of the 2024 OTAs. Stafford's camp had expressed concerns about the lack of security in his contract beyond 2024 after the Rams didn't draft a quarterback in the first round. Initially, the team responded vaguely, but coach Sean McVay later hinted that Stafford would receive the contract revision he seeks.
However, any agreement remains unofficial. If there is a verbal agreement, it hasn't been documented. Advice from St. Louis would be to get any promises from the Rams in writing as soon as possible.
Stafford retains the option to leave voluntary workouts, skip mandatory minicamp, or boycott training camp, although he would face fines. Having earned substantial sums over his 15-year career, Stafford can afford these penalties.
Adding complexity is the Lions' recent $53 million per year deal for Jared Goff, prompting Stafford to possibly seek higher guarantees and more money. The Rams' backup options are Jimmy Garoppolo, Dresser Winn, and potentially Stetson Bennett, giving Stafford considerable leverage if he decides not to attend future sessions.
However, any agreement remains unofficial. If there is a verbal agreement, it hasn't been documented. Advice from St. Louis would be to get any promises from the Rams in writing as soon as possible.
Stafford retains the option to leave voluntary workouts, skip mandatory minicamp, or boycott training camp, although he would face fines. Having earned substantial sums over his 15-year career, Stafford can afford these penalties.
Adding complexity is the Lions' recent $53 million per year deal for Jared Goff, prompting Stafford to possibly seek higher guarantees and more money. The Rams' backup options are Jimmy Garoppolo, Dresser Winn, and potentially Stetson Bennett, giving Stafford considerable leverage if he decides not to attend future sessions.
Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker recently stirred controversy with comments made at a college commencement, suggesting that women's primary role should be as homemakers. This stance is at odds with the Chiefs' promotion of women in leadership roles and their celebration of Women's History Month.
Butker stated, "Some of you may go on to lead successful careers, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and children." He credited his success to his wife, calling her role as a homemaker one of the most important titles.
Butker's comments extended beyond traditional gender roles, including a critique of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. He said, “Not the deadly sins sort of Pride that has an entire month dedicated to it, but the true God-centered pride.”
The Chiefs have not officially responded to Butker's remarks. However, former Kansas City commissioner Justice Horn criticized Butker on social media, asserting that Butker's views do not represent Kansas City's inclusive values.
Public reaction has been mixed, with some dismissing Butker's importance, while others highlight the influence his platform holds. Critics argue his views are a step backward, undermining the progress made toward gender equality and inclusivity.
Butker's speech also addressed men, urging them to embrace traditional masculinity, which he claimed is necessary for societal order. His perspective has drawn support from certain conservative groups but has been widely condemned as regressive.
Overall, Butker's statements have sparked significant debate, emphasizing the ongoing cultural clash over gender roles and inclusivity in contemporary society.