After starting 136 consecutive games dating back to 2010, Lions quarterback Matt Stafford will sit out his second straight week, and possibly more.
From @NFLGameDay: A look at the actives and inactives, with some rather large news on #Lions QB Matthew Stafford – who could miss a month and a half. My story (https://t.co/o5FzyT2913) and 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼 pic.twitter.com/NYNUScQi8G
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 17, 2019
It was revealed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport that Stafford is suffering from “tiny, non-displaced fractures in the upper thoracic spine” which could sideline him for as many as six weeks.
However, Rapoport did report that Stafford is hopeful of beating that timeline. He did practice the week leading up Detroit’s week 10 matchup before he was ultimately ruled out from playing in the game.
He will undergo another scan later this week, which will determine his status going forward. This process will be repeated until Stafford is cleared to play, according to Rapoport.
The 11-year veteran had thrown for 2,499 yards and 19 touchdowns with just five interceptions in eight games before his injury. He also had a career-high passer rating of 106.0.
While Stafford focuses on getting back on the field, the Lions will stick with Jeff Driskel to hold down the offense in the meantime. Driskel threw for 269 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in a narrow loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 10.
