The career-altering turnaround from Jared Goff in a Detroit Lions uniform has been nothing short of remarkable. Let’s delve into it.
Motor City Prelude
On January 30th, 2021, the Detroit Lions agreed to send their franchise quarterback, Matthew Stafford, to the Los Angeles Rams. In exchange, Detroit acquired what was considered a “cast-away” quarterback in Jared Goff. Along with a 2021 third-round pick and two future first-round picks.
Rocky Roads Ahead
Unfortunately for the Detroit Lions & Jared Goff, things weren’t going to be so easy right away. Not only did Goff start with a losing record of 4-16-1 through his first 21 games with the Lions, but he recorded a league-leading 23 turnovers in that stretch. Meanwhile his former team had won the Super Bowl with the quarterback they traded him for.
Things weren’t looking so great by Week 9 of the 2022 NFL Season. Headlines were hogged about Dan Campbell not being the right Head Coach (4-19-1 up to that point) and Jared Goff not having a future here beyond 2024 were talked ad nauseam.
Light at the End of the Tunnel
Jared Goff and the Detroit Lions haven’t looked back since, securing two playoff wins and the teams first NFC North title. Only Jalen Hurts, Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen have amassed more regular season wins since 2022 than Jared Goff. Let’s look at Jared Goff’s splits side-by-side.
One thing is clear, Goff has played himself not only into a long-term future with Detroit, but he’s reminded many doubters why he was taken No.1 Overall in 2016.
What the Future Holds in Detroit
What lies ahead for Jared Goff? Has he reached his ceiling? Performance-wise, it’s hard to envision him surpassing his current level of excellence. That’s not a bad thing, considering his outstanding performance. As for team potential, equip Goff with a top 10 scoring defense, and history indicates that the Lions could be a strong contender for the Super Bowl.