Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 8, 2024 11:30 pm GMT
Kelly Stafford Opens Up About Life with the Rams and Challenges of NFL Life
Kelly Stafford, the wife of Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, recently shared candid insights about her struggles to connect with other Rams wives and the emotional toll of watching her husband on the field. During an episode of her podcast, “The Morning After,” on September 6, she described feeling too old to make new friendships in the high-pressure world of professional football.
Feeling ‘F–king Old’ in a Dynamic Environment
In a conversation with Christen Harper, wife of quarterback Jared Goff, who was recently traded to the Detroit Lions from the Rams, Kelly expressed her admiration for the way the wives and girlfriends of Goff’s new team have bonded. “I honestly love that when you came in there … the team girls have really gotten close, which I love watching,” she noted, adding, “I feel like I really struggle with that here since I’m really f–king old.” At 35, she feels the pressures of maintaining relationships within the team’s social circle.
Host of the Party
Despite her feelings of age, Kelly hosted a successful gathering for Rams wives, a move she found enjoyable. “I will say, now that our house is done, maybe we’ll host a little more,” she quipped, highlighting her lighthearted approach to making new connections.
Missing Detroit
Although she’s embraced her new life in Los Angeles, there are aspects of Detroit she misses. She values the community feel, indicating that the support for the Rams in California feels different. “There’s a lot to do in Los Angeles, like, people are supporting [us],” Kelly said, but she still feels a pull to her roots in Michigan.
Preparing for Matthew’s NFL Opener Against the Lions
This Sunday marks a poignant moment as the Rams prepare to face the Lions in their season opener. For Kelly, this game isn’t just another match; it’s a homecoming of sorts, as Matthew teams up against his former squad. “This game is going to be electric because of the people in that city and that state,” she stated, emphasizing the passion of Detroit fans.
Watching from Home
As the game approaches, Kelly shared her plans to watch from home with their four daughters rather than attending live. “I will be cheering loudly from my couch with my girls,” she said, acknowledging the hectic life that comes with supporting a professional athlete.
The Emotional Toll of Being an NFL Wife
Watching Matthew play in the NFL brings not only excitement but worry as well. Kelly admitted that witnessing her husband get sacked is nerve-wracking. “It’s not the easiest watching this sport,” she confessed, outlining her anxiety for his well-being during the games.
Concerns About Player Safety
Kelly is increasingly concerned about the long-term health impacts of the sport, particularly injuries to the head. “You take more hits the longer you play,” she said. “And he’s on year 16. So that is very heavy on my heart every time I go to the game.” Her worries resonate deeply, especially as her children begin to notice the physical toll the game takes on their father.
Life Off the Field: Balancing Family and Fame
When not on the field, Matthew Stafford is a dedicated father. Kelly shared how they strive to maintain a strong family unit despite the demands of NFL life. “I want my husband to be who he was when I met him and married him after he’s done playing,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of preparing for life after football.
Upcoming Events and Public Engagements
In an exciting turn, Kelly kick-started her own season with a “Cleat Chaser Tour,” set up to connect with her audience while sharing insights about life as an NFL wife, parenting, and even lighthearted thoughts on football. “It’s about life,” she remarked, hinting that this initiative aims to bring fans and followers together—not just around football, but life and family.
The Journey of Kelly Stafford
Through it all, Kelly Stafford continues to maintain both her identity and her support for Matthew as he plays one of the toughest sports in the world. Her journey as a mother, partner, and individual endures alongside the flashing lights of the NFL, making her experience both relatable and unique.
For more updates and to follow along with Kelly’s initiatives, tune into her podcast or look for her upcoming events, where she shares both her professional insights and personal reflections in a world steeped in sport and public scrutiny.
- E! Online
- NFL.com
- USA Football
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