http://www.theoaklandpress.com/articles/2009/04/22/sports/pro/doc49ef61238f506395407301.txt

Per Dave Birkett, the Lions are reportedly close to a deal with Stafford.  They supposedly met with Ford for final approval today.  Nothing official yet, but from his report it sounds as if something drastic has to happen for him not to be signed.

Whether or not you agree with the pick, it's good to have them signed before the draft.  Prevents a holdout, and we can get them right in camp.

He visited Detroit today.  Would be a great addition if our docs feel his knee can hold up, the report says he should be ready for camp.  Could potentially play mid or SLB, and he's relatively young.  He'd take a lot of pressure off Sims if our dline can take up blockers.  Too bad his bro didn't pan out for us, I don't think I'll ever forgive him for dropping so many balls.

http://myespn.go.com/blogs/nfcnorth