NFL: 2017 quarterback power rankings for every team

NFL 2017 quarterback power rankings for every team

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 22: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons speaks to Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers after the NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome on January 22, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Falcons defeated the Packers 44-21. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

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SEATTLE, WA – JANUARY 07: Quarterback Matthew Stafford #9 of the Detroit Lions walks off the field following the game against the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Wild Card game at CenturyLink Field on January 7, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks beat the Lions 26-6. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /

50. . Matthew Stafford. . Detroit Lions. 13. team

Is it weird to think Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford might actually be better without now-retired wide receiver Calvin Johnson at his disposal?

What this did was force Stafford to distribute the ball more evenly last season.

While his 65.7 completion percentage was in line with what he’s done over most of his career, Stafford’s QBR rating jumped up from 61.1 all the way to 70.5 — the highest it’s ever been for the 29 year old.

If Stafford hadn’t played at such a high level last season, the Lions wouldn’t have come anywhere close to making the playoffs and probably would have finished with a record well below .500.

That’s a testament to Stafford’s abilities, and it should be fun to watch him this season.