Matthew Stafford suffered a hand injury that could affect the rest of his 2016 season.
The Detroit Lions quarterback badly dislocated the middle finger on his throwing hand Sunday, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, per a source informed of his condition. Rapoport says the injury is described as "a solidly jammed knuckle." ESPN first reported the news.
Stafford did not miss a snap after experiencing the injury early in the 20-17 victory over the Chicago Bears. Stafford had the finger taped and played the remainder of the game with a glove on his right hand.Â
"Was just trying to figure out what was the best way to manage it," he said, via ESPN.com. "You know, the training room guys, the equipment staff, everybody did a great job. Got me all ready to go, and then I just, I haven't thrown with one in a long time. Trying to get the feel back was a little difficult."
Stafford didn't appear comfortable with the glove, but Rapoport added that the quarterback will likely wear the mitt or a specialized brace for the rest of the season.
Stafford has enjoyed a magical season, helping propel Detroit to a two-game lead in the NFC North with three games to play. Now Stafford will need to keep the wizardry going while fighting through a nagging injury.
