Report: Lions to explore dealing Stafford after trade request
Matthew Stafford has requested a trade from the Detroit Lions and the club will explore options in the coming weeks for the quarterback, sources told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
Stafford recently told the team he feels it's an optimal time to start fresh as the club enters a period of transition, Pelissero adds. The Lions, who have hired a new head coach and general manager, reportedly agreed with the veteran passer and will honor his request.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes were made aware of Stafford's likely departure before joining the team, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Detroit is expected to receive at least one first-round pick in return for Stafford, Schefter added.
A trade for the 32-year-old passer would be expected to occur early in March as Stafford is due a $10-million roster bonus on the fifth day of the 2021 league year. The Lions would save $14 million in cap space if a trade is completed.
The No. 1 pick in the 2009 draft, Stafford has spent his entire career in Detroit, setting numerous club records. He has thrown for a franchise-leading 45,109 passing yards and 282 touchdown passes.
Matthew Stafford is the Lions' all-time passing yards & TD (45,109, 282) & guided them to 74 wins, more than any other QB.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) January 23, 2021
He played through injuries consistently & was universally respected by teammates.
It's time, but a helluva run in Detroit. Will always be loved there.
Stafford will likely be in high demand for teams seeking an upgrade at the quarterback position this offseason. He's in the midst of a five-year, $135-million deal, per Spotrac.
The Lions also own the No. 7 selection in this year's NFL draft after a 5-11 campaign.