Detroit Lions: Searching for Matthew Stafford’s backup

The truth is that there is always talent out there that has been overlooked and can be developed. For instance, the now-defunct Alliance of American Football did boast some intriguing possibilities. Unfortunately, the Lions failed to act quickly and the top prospects worth looking at like Garrett Gilbert, Luis Perez and John Wolford have all been scooped up by other teams.

Although it should be pointed out that Gilbert did have a cup of coffee with both the Lions and Patriots previously.

But while we’re discussing overlooked players, there would appear to be a prime talent available in Arizona. No other team has stepped up to the plate to meet the demands of the Arizona Cardinals who seem to be determined to take Kyler Murray with the number one overall pick and discard last years top selection Josh Rosen.

The Cardinals seem to be holding out for a number one pick in exchange for Rosen, but what if the Lions did actually trade down, accumulate extras picks and then swap that first-round selection for Rosen? This would allow them to accomplish two things, one would be the accumulation of extra picks to use on other needs and the second would be to add a young quarterback who was graded out higher than any of the quarterbacks in this draft.

What it would amount to is the Lions using their first round pick on a quarterback and getting the best value of any team who does actually choose one.

This would also give the Lions a talented young passer who would push Stafford to greater heights or take his job. In other words, it would be a win/win scenario. The Lions would have the advantage of having two talented quarterbacks to choose from this coming season and if Rosen proves to be too much, Stafford’s big contract becomes a little more bearable to move after next season. Especially if they’re paying their new starter a rookie contract.