Drew Stanton's journey through the National Football League (NFL) is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Born on May 7, 1984, in Lansing, Michigan, Stanton grew up with a passion for football that eventually led him to Michigan State University. As a Spartan, he demonstrated his skills as a quarterback, which caught the attention of NFL scouts.
In the 2007 NFL Draft, Stanton was selected in the second round by the Detroit Lions. His early years with the Lions were marked by challenges, including injuries and limited playing time. Despite these hurdles, Stanton remained a reliable backup option for the team. His tenure with the Lions lasted until 2011, during which he appeared in 12 games and started four.
Stanton's career took a new direction when he signed with the New York Jets in 2012. However, his time with the Jets was brief, as he was traded to the Indianapolis Colts before the start of the season. With the Colts, Stanton served as a backup to Andrew Luck, though he did not see any game action during his year with the team.
In 2013, Stanton found a new home with the Arizona Cardinals, where he reunited with head coach Bruce Arians, who had previously worked with him in Indianapolis. This move proved to be a turning point in his career. Stanton became an integral part of the Cardinals' quarterback rotation, stepping in as a starter when needed. His most notable season came in 2014 when he started eight games, leading the team to a 5-3 record in those contests. Stanton's ability to manage games and provide stability was crucial for the Cardinals during that period.
Stanton continued to serve as a backup for the Cardinals through the 2017 season. His role often involved stepping in during critical moments, and he was valued for his experience and leadership on the sidelines. Over his time with the Cardinals, Stanton appeared in 23 games, starting 13 of them.
Throughout his career, Stanton was known for his strong arm and ability to make plays under pressure.
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