Lions Stafford Placed on Injured Reserve

By Justin Worsley,

The Detroit Lions have placed franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford on injured reserve with a separated right shoulder, ending his season.

Stafford, the first-overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, only played in three games this season, passing for 535 yards with six touchdowns and only one interception. The 22-year-old originally injured his shoulder in a season-opening loss to the Chicago Bears and was sidelined until Week 8, when he returned to throw four touchdown passes in a win over the Washington Redskins.

His return, however, was short. During the fourth quarter of an overtime loss to the New York Jets, Stafford re-injured his shoulder and has not returned to the field since.

Drew Stanton has started in place of both Stafford and backup Shaun Hill, who is out with an injured finger.

Stafford has yet to play a full season. During his rookie year, Stafford separated his left shoulder during a win against the Cleveland Browns, ending his season.

Detroit is mathematically eliminated from playoff contention this year.