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- Thaddeus Lewis, who was claimed off waivers this offseason by the Detroit Lions, started at quarterback for the Cleveland Browns in Week 17 last season. Just based on his stats -- 22-of-32, 204 yards, 1 TD and 1 INT -- he did quite well considering it was his first career start (and considering he was playing the Pittsburgh Steelers).
Lewis' performance looks even more impressive when you discover the story behind his first start. He actually went right from the practice squad to being the starter. What's more, he started after not running a single play at quarterback in practice all season before that week. He was actually lining up at wide receiver and defensive back and playing special teams. Imagine what he could have done with more than just a couple days of preparation. - As mentioned earlier this week, ESPN's Ron Jaworski ranked Matthew Stafford as the 16th-best quarterback in the NFL. ESPN has since posted more of Jaworski's analysis on Stafford, and this paragraph sticks out to me: "There is absolutely no question that Stafford is a very special arm talent. There are not many that throw it like he does. He has a chance to be a top 10 quarterback. The Lions may disagree, but he needs more consistent mechanics to play at a higher level week in and week out."
- Stafford tweeted this on Wednesday after signing his contract extension:
Officially signed the deal! Thank you ford family! @kellybhall & I are happy to be in Detroit for at least 5 more! Love this team and city!
— Matthew Stafford (@Staff_9) July 10, 2013 - NFL Network broke down what Reggie Bush will bring to the Lions' running game.
- Ndamukong Suh was interviewed by NFL Network last week. The Lions' official site has more on his appearance.