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The Detroit Lions officially have a hole at quarterback to fill. Drew Stanton, last year's third-string quarterback, has signed with the New York Jets. His deal is for one year and is worth $1.25 million.
As soon as NFL free agency began on Tuesday, Stanton set up a visit with the Jets. New York wanted to fill its need for a backup quarterback, and Stanton appeared to be at the top of their list. Although they did schedule a visit with Brady Quinn, Stanton did not leave New York without a deal today. His visit resulted in a signing, and now Stanton is going to play for a football team not in Michigan for the first time in his career.
For the Lions, this could potentially be a tough blow to their depth at quarterback. It really depends on what happens with Shaun Hill, who has been visiting the St. Louis Rams. If he signs with them, then the Lions will have Matthew Stafford and nobody else at quarterback for next season. Actually, right now they technically don't have anybody other than Stafford since he's the only quarterback under contract, but the hope is that Hill will eventually be brought back.
While it does hurt to lose Stanton and the depth he provided, this was a good move for him. He wasn't active for a single game last season, and in New York he should serve as Mark Sanchez's backup and get more of an opportunity to compete.