A Lions source is disputing a comment from former WR Mike Furrey that Detroit’s quarterbacks have been told Daunte Culpepper will be the starting QB for the team next season, Booth Newspapers reported.

In fact, the Lions, who own the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, are planning on bringing in Georgia QB Matthew Stafford for a private workout, as well as taking a hard look at USC’s Mark Sanchez and Kansas State’s Josh Freeman.

During the Lions’ winless 2008 campaign, their quarterback play was problematic. Dan Orlovsky started seven games at quarterback, Daunte Culpepper started five games and Jon Kitna started four games. The trio accounted for 17 touchdowns and 19 interceptions, including 43 sacks. But the team was still undecided about what it wanted to do at QB in 2009.

A few days ago, Lions general manager Martin Mayhew said he was still deciding the fate of Culpepper and Jon Kitna. Culpepper has a $2.5 million roster bonus due on Feb. 27 while Kitna has a roster bonus of $500,000.

According to the source, Culpepper might remain in the mix, but the team is still exploring its options in signing a free agent veteran quarterback or drafting one in the first round.

In addition to a private workout with Stafford, the Lions also will attend his pro-day workout at Georgia and hold an extended interview with the college standout.

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