NFL: The Insiders on Matthew Stafford

PodcastThe Special Teams Revolution + Week 4's Biggest Matchups | NFL ProOctober 1, 2026

From the episode

Stafford just is not trusting things. He is not getting the ball out when he needs to, where he needs to... He can't get away, so we know the ball has to come out quick.

Mentioned at 33:21 – 37:11

STACKED’s take

Negative signalUsage

Stafford is struggling to handle pressure and identify blitzes

Stafford is struggling with pressure and lacks trust in his protection, leading to a slower release time (2.7-2.8 seconds) compared to the quick-game approach needed to beat blitzes. The source notes he is failing to identify free rushers against disguised zero-blitz looks, which resulted in a pick-six against Hufunga, and the team must adjust their protection schemes to avoid further struggles.