Detroit Lions: Why Matthew Stafford to Washington is more realistic

Whether you’re for it or against it, it’s finally happening. Quarterback Matthew Stafford and the Detroit Lions are parting ways. There are lots of possible destinations for the veteran QB. However, Washington may be a dark horse landing spot for Stafford.

Despite going 7-9 this season, the Washington Football Team still ended up making the playoffs. While it didn’t look pretty on the surface, their team actually wasn’t that bad.

While it was an inspiring story for QB Alex Smith to return from his gruesome injury back in 2018, he’s most likely not the long term option for the WFT. To get over the hump, they need a solid solution at QB, and Stafford could be that guy.

The Indianapolis Colts are the frontrunner for No. 9 this offseason with Denver Broncos rumors heating up. Washington wasn’t considered a realistic destination at first, but their recent front office changes may have inserted them into the race for Stafford.

Last week, the WFT hired Martin Mayhew as their new GM. Mayhew was the Detroit Lions GM from 2008-2015, meaning he was the guy that drafted Stafford in 2009.

If it weren’t for Mayhew, Washington would seem like a long-shot to get a deal done. But that connection those two have is a critical factor in getting a deal done.

Mayhew knows what Stafford is capable of. I mean, he drafted him for a reason. He’s seen him grow as a player and oversaw probably the best era of Stafford’s career (so far).

Even though they went 7-9, Washington is one solid QB away from being a legitimate playoff contender. On offense, they have guys like WR Terry McLaurin and RB Antonio Gibson. On defense, they have even more guys like DE’s Chase Young and Montez Sweat.

The deal is there, it’s just a matter if both sides are willing to pull the trigger.