“Internal Optimism” Extension For Matthew Stafford Could Come Before Training Camp

Stacy Daniels of NFL Network reported on “NFL Total Access” that there is “internal optimism” that the Lions and QB Matthew Stafford will have a long-term deal in place by the start of training camp on July 31.

Daniels adds that an extension for Stafford should come within the next two weeks since he does not want negotiations to carry into camp.

Earlier today, Michael Rothstein wrote that Stafford is “officially next” in line for a monster contract now that Kirk Cousins will play out the year under the franchise tag.

According to Rothstein, Stafford’s next contract should make him the highest-paid player in the league, topping Derek Carr‘s record, five-year, $125 million contract that included $70.2 million guaranteed.

Rothstein believes a deal should get done, as both sides have shown interest in making it happen.

Stafford, 29, is a former first-round pick of the Lions back in 2009. He’s in the final year of his five-year, $76.5 million contract that included $41.5 million guaranteed and he stands to make a base salary of $16.5 million for the 2017 season.

In 2016, Stafford threw for 4,327 yards while completing 65.3 percent of his passes to go along with 24 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 9 quarterback out of 34 qualifying players.

We’ll have more regarding a new deal for Stafford as the news is available.