Former White House staff member shares eye-opening story on Matt Stafford

Following the Los Angeles Rams’ Super Bowl 56 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, an unlikely source shared an eye-opening story of a 2012 encounter with quarterback Matthew Stafford. Gene Sperling, former director of the National Economic Council under the Barack Obama administration, tweeted a photo of Matthew Stafford at a White House event in the West Wing.

“On May 10, 2012, I gave Matthew Stafford (who was in a financial literacy event) a tour of the West Wing,” Sperling shared. “I told him ⁦@BarackObama⁩ was not in WH. He said ‘No worries. There’s only one way an NFL QB should ever get to come to WH and meet the President.’ His moment has come.”

Stafford was heading into his fifth year in the NFL with the Detroit Lions at the time of his West Wing visit. It took him another nine years after the visit, but he will finally get to meet the President of the United States this year when the Rams celebrate their victory at the White House.

On May 10, 2012 I gave Matthew Stafford (who was in a financial literacy event) a tour of the West Wing. I told him ⁦@BarackObama⁩ was not in WH. He said “No worries. There’s only one way an NFL QB should ever get to come to WH and meet the President.” His moment has come. pic.twitter.com/GP6C5UVQvU

— Gene Sperling (@genebsperling) February 14, 2022

The former Georgia Bulldogs first-rounder threw for 283 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions in the Rams’ 23-20 win on Sunday night.

Stafford reveals what got the Rams to their Super Bowl win

After their incredible Super Bowl win over the Bengals, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford discussed just what made their team different this season.

“I’m so proud of this team,” said Stafford after the win. “There’s so many guys on our team that deserve this. So many great players, guys that have just given their heart and soul to this team. Guys that are either playing in this game or not because of injury — I’m just so proud of this group. This is the story of our season. It’s up and down, it’s tough. We’re a freaking tough team — showed up late and got it done. I’m excited.”

Reporters then asked Stafford a follow-up question about his star receiver and Super Bowl MVP, Cooper Kupp. Kupp was the recipient of four passes for 39 yards and the game-winning touchdown.

“That’s hard work,” Stafford said of his relationship with Kupp. “That’s hours together. I just thank coach for putting it — ‘Matthew, you and Coop go get this thing done.’ He kept calling plays for him, kept finding ways to get him the ball. He made unbelievable plays, that’s what he does. I’m so proud of this team, it’s such a team victory. Our defense played outstanding — such a great game.

“I think the way we pull for each other. We work together every single day — we sharpen each other’s skills. I mean, I get to go against that defense every day, how can you not get better? We care for each other. That starts top-down. Sean does an unbelievable job of connecting with all of us as players, leading the way. We followed his lead and we’re here now.”

On3’s Austin Brezina contributed to this report.