Detroit Signs Matthew Stafford Pre-Draft; #1 NFL Pick

Matthew Stafford's deal is reportedly 6 years, over $70 million, with $41.7 million guaranteed. This is the most of any contract in the NFL, meaning that an untried rookie makes more guaranteed money than anyone else.

This is a big risk for the Lions. First round QBs, and #1 overall QBs, are far from a sure bet. One need only look at the 49ers #1 overall QB pick of a few years back, Alex Smith to see that.

But it's not the raw talent that draws Matthew Stafford criticism, it's the inconsistency. Stafford has the strongest arm, but besides his own inconsistencies, there is little around him to support him with.

Many have said that Detroit should concentrate on other areas, perhaps even trading down. One thing to remember though: fan excitement. Fan excitement always rises around marquee players like QBs.

Will he be a Peyton Manning, or a Ryan Leaf or Alex Smith? Time will tell.