Stafford Could Be Intriguing Bears Trade Option In 2021

The Bears need a consistent veteran quarterback to pair with their elite defense, and Stafford fits that timeline perfectly. His contract runs through 2021 with a void year in 2023, which lines up with when the Bears defense is expected to be broken up. It would also give the team freedom to use early draft picks on fixing their offensive line.

The Lions fired head coach Matt Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn after a brutal 13-29-1 record under Patricia's tenure. The organization is now heading into another rebuild, which raises questions about whether they'll keep a veteran quarterback like Stafford through that process.

Stafford is under contract with the Lions for two more seasons, with a void year in 2023. He is considered a high-paid veteran quarterback, which is part of the reason Detroit may look to move on from him during a rebuild.

Stafford has a strong track record of elevating his top wide receivers, turning Kenny Golladay into a Pro Bowl star and helping Calvin Johnson become a three-time First-Team All-Pro. Bringing Stafford in would give Allen Robinson a legitimate Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback, which could be a key factor in convincing Robinson to stay in Chicago.

Trading within the division would be a major obstacle, and the chances are considered overwhelmingly against it happening. However, if the Bears put together a big enough trade package, the Lions would be foolish not to at least consider it, especially if they finish well under .500 and remain far from contending.