Report: Lions, Stafford close to finalizing deal

The NFL’s Web site is reporting that the Detroit Lions are in negotiations to complete a contract with former Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford.

A deal could be reached as soon as Wednesday night, NFL.com’s Steve Wyche reports.

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AP

It looks like Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford will be the No. 1 overall pick in Saturday’s NFL Draft.

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But the Lions have a backup plan. MLive.com is reporting that the Lions have completed contract terms with Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry. If the team can’t reach an agreement with Stafford, they will sign Curry and take him with the first overall draft pick, according to the report. The Lions have set a Friday deadline, the report said.

Stafford’s agents also represent Baylor offensive tackle Jason Smith, who the Lions are also reportedly considering if they can’t strike a deal with Stafford.

Lions spokesman Bill Keenist denied a report earlier Wednesday that a contract was imminent, the Detroit Free-Press reported.

One of Stafford’s agents, Ben Dogra, refused to comment Wednesday night when contacted by the Journal-Constitution.

According to the Detroit News, Stafford provided a humorous anecdote on a Detroit radio station Wednesday that could provide a clue as to whether he thinks the Lions will draft him. When asked what vehicle he drives, Stafford said: “I’ve got a Chevy Tahoe — my old Chevy Tahoe that I’ve had for a long time.” According to the News, he quickly added, as he laughed: “So I’m probably going to have to trade that one out for a Ford — if I go to Detroit.”