WAILUKU, Hawaii – Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford spoke with local media following Wednesday's minicamp practice at War Memorial Stadium, discussing the team's chemistry, the unique opportunity for the organization in Maui this week and more.
More on those Top Takeaways below.
1) Youth at the core of the bond across the roster
Asked about Davante Adams' comment last week that the Rams' camaraderie reminded him of Pop Warner, high school and college ball, Stafford joked that it was probably because of the youth on their roster.
"I think it's just all the young guys we have that reminds him of Pop Warner," Stafford said. "But no, it's a lot of fun. We have a great group. Offense, defense, special teams, everybody gets along. We all cheer for each other, work hard."
That youth movement showed itself in 2024, when Los Angeles entered last fall with the second-youngest initial 53-man roster of any team in the league, and much of that personnel has carried over onto the current 90-man roster.
2) Unique opportunity to inspire young fans
More than 2,000 fans showed up to War Memorial Stadium for Wednesday's practice, with kids greeting the players and coaches and lining the bleachers as they came out onto the field and afterward for autographs from players. This followed Tuesday afternoon's girls flag football and boys tackle football clinics which involved coaching from veteran Rams players and the organization's youth engagement coaches.
"Obviously this is far away from home for us, but it's a unique opportunity to show the kids and the people of this area what we do and be able to interact with them and hopefully inspire some young Puka Nacuas," Stafford said. "There's some guys running around out here that can get it done."
The overall Mauicamp experience is a unique one for the veteran quarterback who is preparing for his 17th NFL season.
"Very different and still very rewarding in the same way," Stafford said.
3) Stafford would like to see Hawaii partnership continue
Rams President Kevin Demoff last month said this arrangement is just for this year, but both are hopeful to continue this partnership beyond that.
When asked about that on Wednesday, Stafford likewise said he hopes it continues.
"Oh, yeah. I mean, I've had a blast," Stafford said. "That's kind of above my pay grade, those people that make those decisions will figure that out, but we've had a good time, I know our team has enjoyed the experience and it's been a lot of fun."
