Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz confirmed via Twitter on Friday that quarterback Matthew Stafford has been placed on season-ending injured reserve.
MLive.com reported the move earlier in the day, citing a source close to the situation, and added that Stafford said he doesn't need surgery on his separated right shoulder at this point. Schwartz tweeted that "we expect an outstanding 2011" from the second-year pro.
Stafford suffered the separation -- his second such injury this season -- during a Nov. 7 game against the New York Jets. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft played in just three games, passing for 535 yards and six touchdowns with only one interception.
Schwartz told reporters earlier this week that he would wait until Sunday to announce his starting quarterback against the Miami Dolphins.
MLive.com reported that No. 2 quarterback Shaun Hill likely will receive the nod. Hill and Drew Stanton practiced with the first team this week, but Hill took initial snaps Friday. Both quarterbacks are listed as questionable on the Lions' injury report.
Stanton has led the Lions to two consecutive wins, but he hurt his non-throwing shoulder last Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Hill broke his right index finger Nov. 25 against the New England Patriots and missed the next three games.
Rookie Zac Robinson is Detroit's only other quarterback.
Lions safety Louis Delmas didn't practice Friday because of a concussion and is doubtful.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
