Introduction
Matthew Stafford is one of the most recognizable quarterbacks in the NFL — a Super Bowl champion, franchise leader, and veteran presence for the Los Angeles Rams. While his on-field accomplishments are widely celebrated, many fans are curious about the person behind the helmet. Questions often arise about his religious beliefs, his age and role with the Rams, and the moving health story of his wife, Kelly Stafford.
In this article, we’ll dive deeply into all of that — giving you verified, SEO-friendly information that covers everything from Stafford’s faith life to his family’s inspiring resilience through health challenges.
Who Is Matthew Stafford? Quick Overview
John Matthew Stafford (born February 7, 1988) is an American professional football quarterback currently playing for the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football League (NFL). Before joining the Rams in 2021, Stafford spent the first 12 seasons of his career with the Detroit Lions, who selected him No. 1 overall in the 2009 NFL Draft.
During his standout career he has earned Pro Bowl selections, led impressive comeback wins, and helped the Rams compete at the highest levels of the league.
Is Matthew Stafford a Christian? Exploring His Faith
Fans often ask whether Stafford is a Christian — and the answer involves both public perception and private life.
What We Know About His Beliefs
While Stafford is known for being intensely private about his personal life, several credible sources indicate that he identifies with Christian faith and that spirituality plays a meaningful role in his life and family. According to Faith & Belief databases, Stafford is regarded as a Christian and places importance on his faith.
Here are key points to understand:
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Many reports describe Stafford and his wife Kelly crediting their Christian beliefs and prayer through challenging times.
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His household emphasizes Christian values, and they’ve publicly acknowledged prayer and faith as part of their life and recovery process during family health struggles.
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Prior to marriage and during adversity, prayer and spiritual belief have been central in how the couple sustained strength.
Stafford’s Personal Privacy and Faith
Stafford rarely discusses religion directly in interviews, and he keeps his personal relationship with faith mostly outside the spotlight. However, those close to him and credible faith directories consistently refer to him as Christian, citing prayer and spiritual values in his private life.
In summary: while Matthew Stafford doesn’t make overt public declarations about his religion constantly, available sources support the idea that he is Christian and grounded in faith.
How Old Is Matthew Stafford & What’s His Role with the Rams?
As of 2026, Matthew Stafford is 37 years old — born on February 7, 1988.
Stafford’s NFL Career Achievements
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Drafted: No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.
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Los Angeles Rams: Traded to the Rams in 2021 and quickly became a franchise cornerstone.
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Super Bowl Champion: Stafford led the Rams to Super Bowl LVI victory with his leadership and elite play.
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Veteran leader: In 2025 he remains a Pro Bowl caliber, high-performance starter and essential to the Rams’ success.
Leadership and Experience
At 37, Stafford brings a unique blend of experience, resilience, and veteran savvy to the Rams offense. Even as teams evolve and young talent enters the league each year, Stafford’s strategic knowledge and poise make him one of the most respected quarterbacks in the NFL today.
The Heart of the Story: Kelly Stafford’s Tumor Battle
Now let’s shift to one of the most inspiring and emotional parts of Matthew Stafford’s personal life — his wife’s serious health challenge.
Who Is Kelly Stafford?
Kelly Hall Stafford is Matthew Stafford’s wife. The couple met at the University of Georgia, where Matthew played quarterback for the Bulldogs and Kelly was a cheerleader. They married in April 2015 and have built a life together that includes raising four daughters.
Kelly also hosts a popular podcast titled “The Morning After”, where she shares family life, personal struggles, and resilience.
Her Tumor Diagnosis and Surgery
In 2019, Kelly was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. Doctors determined it was an acoustic neuroma — a non-cancerous tumor that grows on the nerve responsible for balance and hearing.
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She underwent a 12-hour surgery to remove the tumor in April 2019.
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Recovery was challenging; she needed to relearn how to walk and spent weeks away from her family during rehabilitation.
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The couple openly discussed the experience as a moment that tested their faith, resilience, and partnership.
Clarifying Tumor Facts: No Cancer
Despite occasional rumors online, Kelly Stafford has made it clear she was never diagnosed with cancer. The tumor was benign and successfully treated surgically.
Her story has become a powerful reminder of perseverance, hope, and gratitude — and it continues to resonate with fans and families worldwide.
Life After the Tumor: Family, Faith, and Resilience
Family Life
Matthew and Kelly Stafford are parents to four daughters:
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Chandler (twin)
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Sawyer (twin)
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Hunter
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Tyler
Their household focuses on faith, family values, and intentional parenting — with faith and prayer playing a central role in how they choose to raise their children.
Kelly’s Work and Advocacy
Kelly’s podcast and public presence have made her a prominent voice in discussing family challenges, mental health, and community support. Her tumor journey especially inspired many to prioritize health, listen to their bodies, and seek help when needed.
The Role of Faith in Their Story
Faith was a cornerstone for the Staffords as they navigated one of life’s toughest challenges. Prayer, spiritual community, and Christian belief are often mentioned in reflections about their journey — especially in relation to Kelly’s tumor and recovery.
This shared faith narrative has strengthened how fans see Matthew and Kelly: not just as athletes, but as humans walking through trials with humility and belief.
FAQs About Matthew Stafford
Is Matthew Stafford a Christian?
Yes — credible sources indicate that Stafford identifies as Christian, and his faith plays an important role in his personal and family life, including through times of adversity.
How old is Matthew Stafford?
Matthew Stafford was born on February 7, 1988, making him 37 years old as of 2026.
What team does Matthew Stafford play for?
Stafford is the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, having joined the team in 2021 and leading them to a Super Bowl victory.
Did Matthew Stafford’s wife have a tumor?
Yes — Kelly Stafford was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor (acoustic neuroma) in 2019 and underwent successful surgery. She has since recovered and shared her experience publicly.
Was the tumor cancerous?
No — the tumor was benign, and Kelly has clarified that she was never diagnosed with cancer.
How many children do the Staffords have?
The couple has four daughters: Chandler, Sawyer, Hunter, and Tyler.
Conclusion
Matthew Stafford’s story is more than stats and victories. It’s about faith, family love, resilience against adversity, and a lifelong commitment to what matters most off the field. Whether you’re a football fan or simply inspired by human stories of strength and faith, the Staffords’ journey — from challenges with health to the helm of an NFL franchise — remains powerful and deeply human.
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