Lions Fans Pan Matthew Stafford 'Welcome Back' Narrative

Matthew Stafford is not welcomed back at Ford Field.

The return of Matthew Stafford to Ford Field has been a predominant narrative discussed and examined by the majority of pundits outside of Detroit. 

After being made the No. 1 overall pick back in 2009, Stafford did not lead the team to many playoff appearances and left Motown without a single playoff victory on his resume. 

The final straw was having a meeting with ownership, after another failed rebuilding effort led by general manager Bob Quinn, to end his time with the Lions by asking to be traded back in 2021. 

Unfortunately, the National Football League decided to post a graphic hours before the nationally-televised contest between the Lions and Rams. The graphic showcased fans greeting the 35-year-old veteran signal-caller in a welcoming fashion for his first game back at Ford Field playing for another team. 

Granted, there will be those that fondly remember the comeback wins and gritty efforts to play when hurt during his 12-year run in Motown. 

But in Detroit's first home playoff game in 30 years, the focus should be on Dan Campbell, Jared Goff and the Lions. 

Fans immediately took to social media to pan the post, wondering why anyone would think Detroit would act so welcoming to a player that is trying to end the Lions' dream season. 

One supporter wrote, "You're missing so many middle fingers. This is football. Not badminton."

Another expressed, "No not at all. This is a disgrace to Lions fans."

Here is a sample of the reaction online from fans not feeling the NFL's sappy narrative.

You’re missing so many middle fingers

This is football. Not badminton.

— Al Karsten (@FootballGuy_Al) January 14, 2024

No. Not at all. This is a disgrace to Lions fan’s.

— Koula (@koulakarma) January 14, 2024

This is so far from the truth today, @NFL https://t.co/5Hj6BAN5pr

— Matt Broder (@mattbro21) January 14, 2024