Matthew Stafford’s legacy will continue in Detroit long after he leaves for the West Coast.
On Thursday, Stafford’s wife Kelly revealed the couple has teamed with journalist Mitch Albom and has pledged $1 million towards the development of an education center, set to be attached to Detroit’s SAY PLAY Center that already houses Stafford Field.
“It has been our goal to always give back to the city. Detroit and its people have blessed us in so many ways, we only hope you have felt our gratitude through our joy of giving back to the city,” Kelly began on Instagram.
“The new building will enable the Center to increase its student population who benefit from the center’s academic, athletic and arts programs, and service adults with job training programs, GED classes, and community events. This is the legacy we want to leave behind,” she added. “We would love for you to be a part of it with us..to be a part of this legacy of making a positive impact in so many Detroiters’ lives.”
Selected first overall in the 2009 NFL Draft, Stafford has been the Lions’ franchise quarterback for 12 seasons. Last month, he was traded to the Los Angeles Rams with Detroit receiving its new quarterback, Jared Goff, in return.
Kelly, who has been married to Stafford, 33, since 2015, added how grateful she is to the Detroit community for what they’ve done for her family over the years.
“We came here for football, but we are leaving with a sense of home and endearment,” Kelly wrote. “Endearment not only for this city and the Lions organization, but a love for the people who make up this community.
“Detroit has supported our family not only by showing up on Sundays, but also through our most difficult times. You took us in as your own and made Detroit feel like home and that is what it became, our home,” she continued.
A mother of four, Kelly underwent brain surgery in 2019 to remove a tumor. Kelly said Thursday she hopes Detroit will forever remember the Staffords’ “love of the Detroit community and its people.”
“Thank you Detroit, for everything,” Kelly concluded, adding the hashtag “Stafford Strong.”
Last week, the Staffords said goodbye to Ford Field, posting an emotional tribute on social media.