In 2021, when the Los Angeles Rams traded quarterback Jared Goff to the Detroit Lions, many speculated it could mark the beginning of the end of his tenure as a starting quarterback. Despite Goff’s successful stint with offensive mastermind Sean McVay, boasting a record of 42-27 and a Super Bowl appearance, the Rams opted for a new direction.
Meanwhile, Goff found himself in Detroit, a team that had endured three consecutive losing seasons and hadn’t seen playoff action in five years. However, as of 2024, Goff has firmly established himself as the Lions’ starting QB, and the team is now considered a serious contender.
The Lions experienced a resurgence in 2023, clinching their first division title since 1993 and securing their first playoff victory since 1991—a game notably won against Goff’s former team, the Rams. Setting a franchise record with 12 wins and achieving nine 30-point games, Detroit showcased its newfound strength.
Jared Goff Reflects: Trade to Detroit “Best Thing That Ever Happened”
Reflecting on his journey, Goff recently shared on the Trading Cards podcast that the trade to Detroit has profoundly impacted his life for the better. “In hindsight, being traded to Detroit was the best thing that ever happened to me, both in terms of my career and personal growth,” Goff remarked.
During the recent season, Goff achieved a career-high completion rate of 67.3%, amassing 4,575 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Remarkably, he made history by ending decade-long playoff droughts for two separate teams, becoming the first quarterback to do so in NFL history.
Additionally, he joined an elite group of starting quarterbacks by leading multiple franchises to the conference championship game, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Jared Goff’s Resurgence in Detroit: From Perceived Setback to Franchise Leader
Despite initial perceptions of his trade to Detroit as being akin to a career setback, Goff remained determined to prove otherwise. “Being traded away and perceived as being sent to a place to fade into obscurity is a notion that many had, but I was resolute in not allowing that narrative to define me,” Goff asserted.
He expressed gratitude for the supportive environment fostered by the coaching staff and teammates in Detroit, enabling him to realize his full potential.
In a mere 48 games, Goff has already etched his name in Lions’ history, ranking fifth in passing yards with 12,258 yards, fifth in passing touchdowns with 78, and sixth in wins with 24. His contributions have been instrumental in transforming the Lions from one of the NFL’s strugglers to a franchise expected to contend for a Super Bowl title.