DETROIT — Quarterback Matthew Stafford isn’t the only Lions rookie who has picked up a nickname. Tight end and fellow first-round pick Brandon Pettigrew also has been the subject of some good-natured teasing by veterans.

“They call him Big Money or something like that,” Pettigrew said. “I’m like Half Big Money.”
Of course, Lions coaches just hope Pettigrew turns out to be money, period. With a big 6-foot-5 frame, a penchant for blocking and impressive hands, Pettigrew could be the complete tight end any team would treasure.
During a recent practice, Pettigrew was a favorite target of Stafford’s and the two seemed to work well together.
“It just happened like that,” Pettigrew said. “I’m glad we’re kind of getting a feel for each other and a good connection going into this thing and having a good relationship. That’ll be good.”
Pettigrew has been particularly impressed with Stafford’s on-field maturity.
“He’s a rookie as well, but he sits in there with composure and attitude and leadership, like he’s been here,” Pettigrew said. “He’s just an all-around good player and good guy.”
Pettigrew isn’t ready to dish out any nicknames of his own, but he has a telling description of all of the Lions’ quarterbacks.
“All of them are pretty much on the money,” he said. “I’m used to balls being there but not every time just on the money. Guys are putting it right there.”