By John Sarianides

The Detroit Lions signed quarterback Matthew Stafford to a five year, $135 million dollar extension last night. The deal includes $50 million in bonus money and $92 million guaranteed. Not bad for a quarterback who has never won a playoff game.

The deal makes Stafford the highest paid player in league history at $27 million per season. 

Naysayers will immediately point to Stafford’s playoff record and say he is not worth that kind of money. When you look at Stafford’s career averages however, he is worth that kind of contract in today’s NFL.

Stafford has averaged 3,800 yards and 24 touchdown passes per season in his career. He has 61.5 completion percentage for his career. Those are not exactly “gaudy” numbers but they are top ten numbers and most people around the league feel that Stafford is a top ten quarterback. 

Stafford’s new contract will have a ripple effect around the league. It will be interesting to see what Kirk Cousins signs for next off-season. He has the leverage now big time. 

$27 million per season might seem like a lot but it is the price you pay if you want an elite quarterback. Whether you believe it or not, Stafford is an elite quarterback and he got paid like one.