Stafford intends to play 'for a long time' despite back injuries

Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford doesn't have any concerns about his long-term NFL future despite dealing with back injuries for the past two seasons.

"I want to play for a long time," Stafford said. "I felt like I was playing really good ball this year and something that was kind of a freak deal that happened, and obviously got to take it in stride and listen to doctors, my body, coaches and figure out what's best, but I was having a lot of fun playing when I was out there and wish I could be out there now trying to help us win games."

Stafford - who has been sidelined since Nov. 3 - reiterated he plans to play again this season, adding his back is "continuing to heal as it should."

Through eight games, the 31-year-old had the best passer rating of his career (106.0) and was on pace to throw 38 touchdowns to 10 interceptions.

Though the Lions have been eliminated from playoff contention, head coach Matt Patricia said Monday the team hasn't yet shut down Stafford for the season out of respect for the QB's toughness.

Jeff Driskel started three games in place of Stafford before going on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. Undrafted rookie David Blough was under center for last Thursday's loss to the Chicago Bears.

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