There will only be one member of the Stafford family at Ford Field on Sunday to hear whatever boos come from the crowd. Kelly Stafford, wife of Rams quarterback and former Detroit Lion Matthew Stafford, announced she would not attend the Lions-Rams season opener on Sunday night in Detroit. Despite being in town for a live show of her podcast on Saturday, Kelly stated she plans to return home immediately after the event.
“After our amazing, amazing live show, I’m going to hop on a plane and head home so I can watch it with my daughters here,” she said on her podcast.
Kelly Stafford’s decision follows a previous experience at Ford Field that garnered attention. During the Lions-Rams playoff game in January, she and her four daughters faced boos from Lions fans. Despite that contentious moment, she supported the Lions in their bid for last season’s Super Bowl.
Kelly Stafford’s absence from the game does not indicate a lack of support for her husband’s team. In the aftermath of their playoff experiences, she has often expressed a nuanced stance—balancing her connection to the Lions with her loyalty to the Rams. This balance underscores her unique position, given Matthew Stafford’s long history with the Lions and eventual trade to the Rams.
For the Lions, this season opener against the Rams is especially significant. The game symbolizes a fresh start and a critical test, given the team’s high expectations. The ESPN simulator even predicts the Lions to win Super Bowl LIX in dramatic fashion, further fueling the excitement among Detroit fans. Against this backdrop, the absence of one of Ford Field’s well-known faces becomes a notable side story.
Coach Dan Campbell and the Lions are looking forward to this clash as a chance to solidify their position among the NFL’s elite teams. With new additions and a re-energized roster, Campbell’s squad aims to prove their mettle.
