Detroit QB Stafford Goes On Reserve/COVID-19 List

By Noah Trister

DETROIT (AP) — One of the NFL’s standout quarterbacks is now on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Matthew Stafford was put on the list by the Detroit Lions, according to the league’s transactions report Saturday. The reserve/COVID-19 list was created for players who either test positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with an infected person. The 32-year-old Stafford is easily one of the most high-profile players to land there.

The Lions, citing NFL-NFLPA policy, have not been commenting on the medical status of players on that list. Stafford is entering his 12th season with Detroit after being drafted by the Lions with the No. 1 overall pick in 2009.

Stafford’s wife Kelly had surgery last year to remove a brain tumor.

Stafford played every game for the Lions from 2011-18, but back and hip injuries caught up with him and he missed half of last season. Detroit is coming off two straight bad seasons under coach Matt Patricia, who is under pressure to improve this year — if the NFL can even play amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Also Saturday, Seattle put guard Chance Warmack on the reserve/opt-out list, and Dallas put defensive back Saivion Smith on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Jacksonville defensive end Lerentee McCray went on the reserve/opt-out list too.

“With the health and safety of my family in mind, I have decided to opt out of the 2020 season during these trying times in ‘Our Nation,’” McCray said. “I was honored to be involved in our team’s social justice efforts during this offseason, and I look forward to continuing to support those affected in any way I can.”