Matthew Stafford, quarterback, Detroit Lions
The Lions already know what comes next. Now that Carr’s deal is reportedly almost in the books, it’s going to be Stafford’s turn to set a record.
The team knows Stafford is going to be the NFL’s highest-paid man, and, according to team president Rob Wood the Lions are comfortable with doling out that kind of cash. Quite honestly, they should be.
One of the quarterbacks who has lived up to the hype of being the No. 1 overall guy taken in his draft class, Stafford has been ripping apart NFL defenses with his strong right arm since his rookie campaign. In particular, he’s excelled since the Lions promoted Jim Bob Cooter to the position of offensive coordinator. The past two years, Stafford has passed for 8,589 yards with 56 touchdowns and just 23 interceptions.
Still just 29 years of age, Stafford is just now entering the prime of his career. If he stays healthy long enough, he has the potential to break all kinds of NFL passing records. He’s one of the top passers in the league, and he’ll soon be paid like it.