Matthew Stafford named top-tier QB by survey of execs and coaches
But as he enters his 17th season, Stafford has finally earned placement in The Athletic's top tier of quarterbacks, as voted on by 50 NFL coaches and executives. The biggest differentiator for the voters was he transcended from being a "gunslinger" quarterback to one who displayed an innate ability to "process, think and communicate."
"I always had a high admiration for him as a competitor, arm talent and playmaker, but always thought he was a gunslinger," one voter said. "He still has that in him, but his mind, his ability to process, think and communicate stand out."
"Offensive coaches kiss this guy's ass all the time, especially guys from that system," a defensive coordinator said. "He's really good, though. I would take him over [Justin] Herbert because he is a better passer, with better timing."
Per The Athletic's Mike Sando, Stafford earned 26 first-tier votes from three general managers, one assistant GM, three former GMs, four other personnel execs and seven defensive coordinators.
This is an important season for Stafford's legacy. Not only could he pass some historic milestones, but Stafford is also on the hunt for a coveted second Super Bowl ring that would likely cement his place in the Hall of Fame. He doesn't have much time, either, at the age of 37 and history of recent injuries.
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