NFL Network's Albert Breer recently talked to Detroit Lions president Tom Lewand about the health of quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has spent the offseason recovering from shoulder surgery. While the NFL lockout has prevented direct communication between players and coaches/members of the front office, trainers have been kept in the loop. This has given Lewand a chance to monitor Stafford's status.

Lewand told Breer that the trainers who have been keeping an eye on Stafford say his recovery is "off the charts." Lewand likened the recovery process to what Sam Bradford went through last year.

"The injury that he sustained last year and the surgery that he had is very similar to Sam Bradford's a year ago," Lewand explained. "And obviously, Sam had a tremendous rookie year, didn't miss any snaps, and we feel the same about Matthew's ability to go forward, better than he's ever been."

If Stafford can come back from his shoulder issues like Bradford did last season, the Lions should be in store for a great 2011 season.