NEWSLETTER
No Chicago Bears were added to the updated reserve/COVID-19 list. But one big name in the NFC North was included, and it’s an eye-opener.
Detroit Lions QB Matthew Stafford:
Today’s COVID-19 list update. Obviously, Lions QB Matt Stafford is the big one. pic.twitter.com/FUJFgOVvW7
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) August 1, 2020
The Lions put quarterback Stafford on the reserve/COVID-19 list. That’s huge news.
Now, mind you, going on the reserve/COVID list doesn’t necessarily mean he (or any player) tested positive for coronavirus. Players placed on the list either tested positive for COVID-19 *or* are in quarantine after potential exposure. Either way, Stafford goes on and the watch on his status begins.
Even though Detroit has playmakers like Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones Jr. on offense, and Jeff Okudah projects to be a standout corner, Stafford, 32, is the Lions best and most valuable player in either side of the ball. He’s the engine that makes everything go.
Stafford was a Pro Bowler in 2014 and has been one of the NFC North’s best quarterbacks for a good long while. From 2011-18, he averaged more than 4,400 passing yards and 27 touchdowns per season. He’s pretty good.
Also, let’s keep this in mind:
Matthew Stafford in May on football in the pandemic: "I’m hoping it’s safe enough for all of us to get back out there. I don’t want to be putting people at undo risk for us to go play a game but…if we can find a way to make it safe" I want to play https://t.co/6Niq11mv6s
— Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) August 1, 2020
Detroit is a long shot to make the postseason. But the team is somehow a favorite among the sleepers to contend for a spot in the expanded playoffs. However, if the Lions want to make their fourth postseason appearance under Stafford’s guidance, he’ll need to be on the field for it to happen. We’ll keep tabs on this and any other developments on the COVID-19 list.
