Interesting update from Tom Kowalski. He says the Lions have agreed to terms with Aaron Curry and will sign/draft him unless Matthew Stafford agrees to the team’s contract demands. Of course, I say ‘Aim high, Stafford! Don’t compromise!’

But regardless of who the pick is, I like this tactic from the Lions’ management. There are reports that Stafford has been telling friends he’s getting $40 million guaranteed — a monster contract. As Peter King points out, that would far outstrip the deals for either of the last two picks, OT Jake Long and QB JaMarcus Russell. Russell held out for forever before getting $32.5 million from the Raiders. Why would the Lions happily sign off on a contract for $40 million guaranteed several days before the draft? Turns out they’re not, which seems wise.

If none of the top candidates are a clear top choice, then the Lions may as well play the potential picks against each other in negotiations. And if Curry is willing to take a reasonable deal, that’s great news — both because I hope Detroit signs/drafts Curry, and because that represents some serious leverage with Stafford.