ESPN: Matthew Stafford surprise the Lions with a shocking gesture.

Lions fan Bryson Machonga wanted to send his daughter to the Lions’ playoff game, so he sold some of his favorite sports memorabilia, including an autographed Matthew Stafford jersey, to pay for the tickets. Even though the Lions lost the game, there is a happy ending to this tale.

Someone forwarded the Detroit Free Press piece about Machonga’s choice to Stafford, who then sent Machonga another autographed jersey.

Because Stafford wanted to send him a jersey, not just any jersey, but a game-worn one that Stafford had preserved as a memento of the Lions’ 11-5 season in 2014, their best record during Stafford’s tenure as their quarterback, Machonga claimed a Rams employee got in touch with him and asked for a shipping address.

I couldn’t believe it at first. I was ecstatic. However, it quickly transformed into overwhelming delight and ecstasy,” Machonga told the Detroit Free Press. It only reaffirmed Matthew Stafford’s identity. There was no motive for him to do this. He had nothing to gain. He went above and beyond during a playoff week, which is why he is no longer our quarterback.

The jersey with Stafford’s autograph and the words “To Bryson-Thanks for all the support” were sent to Machonga’s home.

As long as Stafford isn’t playing against the Lions, it’s simple to understand why Lions supporters still stand behind him.