On Sunday, Detroit Lions QB Matthew Stafford did something he didn’t have to do. He played in Detroit’s game against the Tennessee Titans. Despite suffering a rib injury in Week 14, he marched out under center and tried his best although the Lions ultimately lost to the Titans 46-25. With Stafford’s future in the Motor City questionable, Lions fans have to appreciate him before he’s gone.
Love Him Before He’s Gone
Lions’ QB Matthew Stafford tore his rib cartilage during last Sunday’s loss to Green Bay, per source. Despite his torn rib cartilage, right thumb injury and questionable game status for today, Stafford plans to play vs. the Titans, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 20, 2020
The overwhelming sentiment among football fans in Detroit is that Stafford’s days with the Lions are numbered. Whoever the organization chooses as the new GM and head coach could decide to keep the former first overall pick. However, it’s feeling more and more like the city is ready to move on.
Despite the injuries, Stafford has chosen to be a trooper for a Detroit franchise that has consistently let him down. For over a decade, he has been trusted as the franchise QB, but the organization has failed to put the right pieces around him. Knowing he’s capable of achieving more, Stafford could have demanded out of Motown and the dumpster fire that is the Detroit Lions organization long ago. Instead, he’s chosen to fight and delivered probably the most badass post-game quote in Lions history on Sunday.
That's my quarterback. pic.twitter.com/Fxb2Er4Vaw
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 21, 2020
“Because I’m the quarterback of the Detroit Lions.”
That’s his job, and it’s a job many people probably wouldn’t want. It’s his job and he’s done it incredibly well for over a decade playing for an organization that doesn’t deserve him. Reading that quote, I can’t help but be reminded of a scene in the movie The Dark Knight Rises. Stafford doesn’t owe the people of Detroit anything, but he hasn’t given up everything yet.
Thank You, Matt Stafford
If Stafford’s time in the Motor City is coming to an end, then Detroit fans owe him the biggest thank you imaginable. In his 12th season and now working with his 4th different head coach, this man could have just given up. Instead, he’s played through numerous injuries and tried desperately to lead a hopeless organization to glory.
Stafford doesn’t owe us anything anymore. In fact, the Detroit Lions owe it to him to be honest and open about the future at the QB position. They owe it to Stafford to find him a new home where he has a better chance at achieving the success he’s capable of.
Matt, your time with the Detroit Lions might be almost at an end. If that’s the case, then I want to say thank you on behalf of all Detroit fans.
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