Report: Doctors say Stafford suffered 6-week injury

Matthew Stafford has been told by doctors that the fractured bones in his back should require six weeks of recovery, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The Detroit Lions quarterback could return before then, however, as the club remains unsure about the timeline, Schefter reports.

Stafford missed last week's tilt against the Chicago Bears and has already been ruled out for Sunday's matchup with the Dallas Cowboys. Including Week 11, Detroit has seven games remaining in its season.

The Lions are apparently holding out hope for a timely recovery, as, they've chosen not to put him on injured reserve. Backup Jeff Driskel will continue to lead the team from under center.