The Los Angeles Rams announced that quarterback Matthew Stafford has been named as the team’s nominee for the 2026 Salute to Service Award. The annual award recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff and alumni who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to supporting U.S. service members, veterans, and their families.
Stafford was named the nominee through his longstanding commitment to supporting service members, veterans and their families. Stafford has hosted active-duty military members from California installations and veterans connected to organizations including Merging Vets and Players and the Gary Sinise Foundation. Most recently, during the Rams’ Salute to Service game, Stafford and his family continued their support of the team’s Row of Honor initiative, welcoming 20 guests from the Navy SEAL Foundation with game tickets and a special on-field meet-and-greet experience.
“Our military community allows us to live the lives that we live every day, and that’s why it’s so important for me to connect with and uplift service members, veterans, and their families,” said Stafford. “Recognizing our military and making sure they feel appreciated is so close to home for me as my grandfather and brother-in-law served and knowing how much they sacrificed motivates me to give back every opportunity I can.”
Alongside his wife, Kelly, Stafford has supported additional military appreciation initiatives. Stafford also participated in the American Red Cross’ Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign, appearing on a holiday card thanking military personnel for their service. Kelly supported related efforts at local schools, encouraging students to write messages of gratitude distributed to service members and veterans.
Stafford and his family also will support the Rams’ second Military Classic flag football tournament on Saturday, November 7, by providing special gifts to all 12 participating military teams.
Stafford is one of 32 nominees for this prestigious honor, with a fan vote helping to determine the final three candidates. Fans can show their support by voting at [NFL.com/SaluteFanVote](https://www.nfl.com/causes/salute/nominees/2026/vote) from now through Monday, November 30, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET. One vote per nominee per day is permitted.
Matthew Stafford becomes Rams all-time passing TD leader
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Stafford became the Rams all-time leader in passing touchdowns during their Week 7 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. [He responded after the games](https://ramsnewswire.com/matthew-stafford-super-appreciative-to-become-rams-all-time-passing-touchdowns-leader/2026/10/26/) with jokes and appreciation for his franchise.
“It just means you’re old and you play a lot of ball,” Stafford said postgame of the franchise passing touchdown accomplishment. “Just super appreciative of all the guys that helped me do that. Catching touchdowns and throwing touchdowns isn’t a one-man job. Takes a lot of people to block and get open, and coaches to draw plays.”