In recent years, the Detroit Lions have been recognized as one of the NFL’s fastest (and highest) rising teams, advancing to the NFC Championship game a year ago. Much of the reason for the team’s success centers around the man who takes the snaps: Jared Goff.
The Lions quarterback has enjoyed his greatest success in Detroit despite already having taken the Los Angeles Rams to a Super Bowl before his arrival. When his career in Tinsel Town became a little too topsy-turvy for the team, they dealt him for fellow QB Matthew Stafford – leaving many in the Motor City wondering what exactly he still had to bring to the table.
Goff responded with a renaissance. Since his arrival, Detroit has gone from a punchline… to the guys doing the punching.
With popular and precocious head coach Dan Campbell instilling a new set of confidence in Goff and his teammates, they’ve risen from obscurity. Their 12-5 record and NFC North Division title in 2023 was a breakout year on many levels, and it established them as legitimate Super Bowl contenders heading into 2024.
Lions & Goff Look to Get a Deal Done
However, a cloud looms large over Jared Goff and the franchise going forward: The quarterback’s contract status. His deal is up after this season, and he’s been very vocal about wanting a long-term extension from the Lions. So, one of the burning questions around them during the offseason has been: Are they going to lock up Jared Goff and guarantee that their current success continues?
During the 2023 campaign, the proficient passer threw for 4,575 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. This came on the heels of a 2022 Pro Bowl season, which saw him put up 4,478 yards, 29 TDs, and seven picks. That’s two straight seasons of excellence. His performance not only elevated his team but also lifted him to the status of being widely recognized as the best NFC North quarterback and one of the best in the entire league.
#Lions' Jared Goff Speaks Out on Negotiations!https://t.co/UvpiwbGnzp
— NFL Analysis Network (@NFLAnalysisNet) May 7, 2024
As of now, the negotiations between the two sides are ongoing, and many expect that a new deal will be done by the time training camp rolls around. Jared Goff is expected to command $50 million annually, which would put him in the top ten QBs in the NFL. And at the end of the day? He’s worth every penny. Especially if the Lions want to keep their upward trajectory going.
Jared Goff is The Man in Motown
Looking past just the numbers, the leadership and stability that Jared Goff brings under center is another X-factor in the Lions’ current success. In a city known for its rich musical history, he’s been able to conduct a Silver and Blue symphony. So, there’s no reason for the franchise to hit any sour notes when it comes to these contract talks.
Jared Goff is a true leader and a top-notch quarterback, and he’s loved by the Motor City Maniacs who fill up Ford Field. Despite being a Californian kid, he has a blue-collar approach, which makes him feel at ease in a city that was built on transmissions and turbines.
Who is the best quarterback in the NFC North right now?
It's #Lions QB Jared Goff. 🥇
The only other QB close is the Packers Jordan Love, who sits safely in 2nd place after a strong 8-game finish to the season.
Jared Goff 2023 stats
Passing yards: 4,575… pic.twitter.com/kTeJrbkmUm— Matt Broder (@mattbro21) May 8, 2024
So to set the minds of the fanbase at ease, it would be a good idea to crank out a long-term contract for Goff as soon as possible. Besides? There’s no need for distractions for the Lions heading into their most anticipated season in decades. They’re too close to the finish line to slow down now.
Last season was like an amazing concert being played in Detroit Rock City, and the guy hitting all the right notes wants to come back for a lot more encores.
So, if the Lions want to be more than just a one-hit wonder?
They should sign Jared Goff… and keep on shattering records.
For More Great Content
Ryan K Boman is the author of the 2023 book, Pop Music & Peanut Butter: A Collection of Essays about Embracing Life with Laughter & Love. His previous work has appeared at The Miami Herald, SB Nation, Bounding into Sports, and Yardbarker. Follow him on social media @RyanKBoman.
Enjoy more articles from Ryan and others daily! Check out all the great content Total Apex Sports has to offer. Check us out on X @TotalApexSports and our other sites: Total Apex Sports.
