Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford's contract year rundown
Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford could be the NFL's highest paid quarterback in 2018 once he signs a new deal
The Detroit Lions have a huge decision heading into the 2017 season. Matthew Stafford is set to make $16.5 million this season, which happens to be his last year of his contract. Recent rumors have assumed Stafford could become the NFL's highest paid quarterback heading into the 2018 season.
Even Lions president Rod Wood told ESPN's Michael Rothstein he doesn't want a drawn-out contract frenzy like we've seen with other quarterbacks across the NFL.
"I'm comfortable in getting a deal done with him, and we'll see where that ends up. It's going to be whatever it takes, I think, to make it happen from both sides, and whether he becomes the highest paid or not, it'll be a short-lived designation."
It's no surprise the Lions are going to work with Stafford to come to a contract agreement. The first-overall pick in the 2009 draft would be more than the Lions organization could have ever imagined. The eight-year veteran has set NFL records since his rookie year.
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In 2009, Stafford was the youngest quarterback to ever throw five touchdowns in a game, en route to beating the Cleveland Browns, 38-37. Although he was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury, Stafford finished his rookie year with 13 touchdowns.
In the last six years, Stafford has started every game. Stafford is also one of only four quarterbacks to throw over 5,000 yards in a season. He is also the fastest quarterback in the NFL to accumulate more than 25,000 passing yards. If that isn't impressive enough, Stafford has the most comeback games in the NFL, recording eight in 2016 alone.
With all that said, it is safe to assume he could be the top paid quarterback in the NFL, or at least until 2018 when other top quarterback contracts expire. Recently, Derek Carr's contract extension of five years, $125 million has been the talk of the town. Not only is this ideal for Carr, but this is amazing news for Stafford, who has more experience and record-breaking NFL statistics than Carr.
It's only a matter of time before Stafford's contract is finalized. Until then, we just have to sit and wait patiently to see what the future holds for the Lions and Stafford. Until then, bring on training camp.
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