Jared Goff: The Detroit Lions’ MVP Finalist and the Road Ahead

A Season to Remember
The Detroit Lions have found their leader under center, and the NFL has taken notice. Jared Goff was named a finalist for the league’s most prestigious individual award—the MVP—after an electrifying regular season. Guiding the Lions to a remarkable 15-2 record, Goff cemented himself among the NFL’s elite, dominating statistical leaderboards and proving his worth as a franchise quarterback.

However, the dream season came to an abrupt halt in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. The Lions suffered a heartbreaking 45-31 loss, cutting their Super Bowl aspirations short. While the sting of that defeat lingers, Goff’s performance throughout the year cannot be overlooked. Let’s take a closer look at what made his 2024 campaign so special and what the future holds for him and the Lions.

Reasons for Optimism
Goff’s 2024 season was a masterclass in efficiency and resilience. He finished second in the league with 4,629 passing yards and fourth in touchdown passes with 37—both career bests. His precision was unmatched, posting a personal high in completion percentage and showcasing his ability to lead a high-powered offense.

One of his most memorable performances came in October when he delivered a flawless 18-for-18 game against the Seattle Seahawks on Monday Night Football. This stellar stretch earned him NFC Offensive Player of the Month honors, solidifying his status as a top-tier quarterback.

Against the blitz, Goff was nothing short of spectacular. He posted a 120.4 passer rating when pressured, proving his ability to read defenses and make quick, decisive throws. His dominance was on full display in a crucial Week 7 matchup against Minnesota’s blitz-heavy defense, where he picked apart the Vikings and led the Lions to a critical road victory.

Durability has also been one of Goff’s greatest strengths. He played in all 17 regular-season games, missing only a single series in the postseason due to a minor injury. While backup Hendon Hooker saw limited action in garbage time, it was veteran Teddy Bridgewater who took over as the primary backup in the playoffs. As Hooker continues to develop, he is expected to reclaim the QB2 role heading into 2025.

Challenges and Concerns
With great success comes even greater expectations. Goff is set to begin the first year of his contract extension, and the Lions are firmly in the Super Bowl conversation. The pressure is mounting, and all eyes will be on him to take the team to the next level.

One of the biggest adjustments Goff will face is a change at offensive coordinator. Under Ben Johnson, Goff thrived in a system tailored to his strengths. But with Johnson now leading the Chicago Bears, Detroit has turned to John Morton to take the reins. Morton is familiar with the team, having played a key role in designing the offensive scheme alongside Johnson. However, there will inevitably be adjustments, and Goff will need to maintain his high level of play despite the transition.

Additionally, Goff’s postseason struggles have raised some concerns. His four-turnover performance in the Divisional Round loss was a major factor in the Lions’ early exit, sparking questions about his ability to perform under the brightest lights. While his regular-season dominance is undeniable, proving himself in the playoffs will be the ultimate test.

The Biggest Question Mark: A New Offensive Coordinator
The Lions’ offense was one of the most explosive units in the NFL under Ben Johnson’s guidance. Now, with John Morton stepping in, the biggest question surrounding Goff is how he will adapt to the new leadership.

Head coach Dan Campbell has emphasized the importance of keeping Goff comfortable in the system, even allowing him input in the hiring process. While Morton’s familiarity with the team should provide some continuity, it remains to be seen how the offense will evolve. If the transition is smooth, the Lions could take the final step toward Super Bowl contention. However, if the adjustment period proves difficult, it could become a major obstacle in their championship pursuit.

Lions Quarterback Depth and Free Agency Outlook
One key decision for Detroit this offseason will be determining their backup quarterback situation. Veteran Teddy Bridgewater is set to hit free agency, leaving the Lions with a choice to either re-sign him or fully commit to Hendon Hooker as Goff’s primary backup. Hooker, entering his second full offseason, has shown promise but remains largely untested in meaningful action.

A Defining Season Ahead
Jared Goff’s 2024 campaign was one of the best in franchise history, but the work is far from over. With a new offensive coordinator, Super Bowl expectations, and the weight of his new contract, 2025 will be a defining season for both him and the Detroit Lions. If he rises to the occasion, he could cement his legacy in Motor City. If not, the Lions may find themselves facing difficult questions about their long-term future at quarterback.