The Chicago Bears seem to be honing in on their next quarterback. The fan base has been enamored with names on the market such as Deshaun Watson and Dak Prescott, but early indications seem the team is looking in another direction. According to Senior NFL Reporter Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, Chicago is engaging in talks about a potential trade involving Detroit Lions’ franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford.
While it seemed unlikely the Lions would trade their longtime starting quarterback to an NFC North rival like the Bears, new head coach Dan Campbell seems eager to make a move. Reports surfacing earlier this week indicated Detroit was having a hard time finding a good offer for Stafford. The two sides have publicly agreed to mutually part ways. It would come as no surprise if Bears’ GM Ryan Pace took those rumors and sent an appealing offer to the team, trying to get a head start going into the 2021 offseason.
Through 12 seasons in Detroit, Matthew Stafford has amassed an impressive resume, recording 45,109 yards with 282 touchdowns, 144 interceptions, and an 89.9 passer rating. Stafford has logged eight seasons of over 4,000 yards, including a 5,000-yard campaign in 2011. Since 2011, he has played in 16 games in all but one season. While he doesn’t have an impressive record as a starting quarterback, many around the league would agree that he hasn’t been given the talent and stability required to succeed. A fresh start could be the best thing for both parties.
Stafford will be 33 by the beginning of the 2021 NFL season and currently has two years remaining on his contract.
