Dear Matthew Stafford,
Earlier today, I got an alert on my phone notifying me that the Detroit Lions have placed you on the Reserve/COVID-19 list.
My first reaction, being a sportswriter for Detroit Sports Nation, was to hurry up and write and post the news as soon as possible to keep out readers informed, so that is exactly what I did.
But within moments of hitting the “publish” button, I felt some uneasiness taking over me.
The uneasiness had absolutely nothing to do with what the Lions offense would look like without you, but it had everything to do with Matthew Stafford THE HUSBAND and Matthew Stafford THE FATHER.
It has been a roller coaster of the past year and a half or so for your family, with Kelly’s brain surgery (going well, Thank God) and the birth of your fourth daughter Tyler, who spent some time in the NICU before being able to go home. (I had the same situation with my daughter and it was the most stressful time of my life, so I understand)
As you know, there is absolutely nothing more important than God and Family, with football coming in at a distant No. 3 on the list, even though we love it.
That being said, on behalf of Detroit Lions’ fans around the world, I want you to know that if you and your family decide it is in your (and their) best interest to opt-out of the 2020 season, we will 100% understand and support your decision.
Sincerely,
Detroit Lions Fans
