Jared Goff and the Future of the Detroit Lions Quarterback Position

Goff Is the Lions’ Guy—For Now

Detroit Lions fans can rest easy: Jared Goff isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The 29-year-old quarterback has solidified his place as the team’s franchise leader, guiding the Lions to one of their most successful seasons in recent memory. There is no doubt that he is the face of the franchise and will continue to lead the team for the foreseeable future.

However, as with all great NFL careers, the time will eventually come when the team will need to think about the future. Quarterbacks don’t last forever, and Goff himself recognizes that no player can escape Father Time. But when that day comes, the Lions may already have the perfect mentor lined up for their next QB—Jared Goff himself.

Goff Understands the Value of a Great Backup

On Thursday, Goff joined the Glue Guys podcast and spoke about the importance of having a reliable backup quarterback—someone who not only steps in when needed but also mentors the next generation. He referenced his own experience as a rookie when he took over as the starter for the Los Angeles Rams and how his predecessor, Case Keenum, handled the situation with professionalism and grace.

“He has the ability, like you said, to drop the ego too,” Goff explained. “There’s a chemistry in the quarterback room, and you need to know where you fit. A lot of times, guys at the end of their careers don’t want to give into that, and then they don’t get opportunities anymore. And it sucks.”

The Value of a Veteran Backup

Goff’s comments highlight an important reality in the NFL—every quarterback, no matter how great, eventually reaches a point where they are no longer the long-term answer. What sets some apart is their ability to transition into a mentor role rather than resist the inevitable.

We’ve seen it before: veteran quarterbacks who fight to stay starters often struggle to find a place in the league once their skills decline. On the other hand, those willing to embrace the backup role can extend their careers while imparting invaluable knowledge to young quarterbacks. Case Keenum, who Goff mentioned in the interview, is a prime example of how a seasoned veteran can support a young quarterback’s development while still being ready to step in when needed.

Preparing for the Future

Goff’s self-awareness is an asset for the Lions. He understands that, one day, Detroit may look for his successor. That day might not be coming soon—especially after Goff’s outstanding 2023 season in which he led the Lions to an NFC Championship appearance—but when it does, he’s already shown he’s willing to mentor the next franchise quarterback.

Having a young quarterback sit behind Goff for a season or two could be invaluable. Many great quarterbacks, from Patrick Mahomes to Aaron Rodgers, have benefitted from learning behind experienced veterans before stepping into the starting role. If and when the Lions find their next franchise quarterback, they would be fortunate to have someone like Goff guiding that transition.

The Lions’ Future Is in Good Hands

For now, Lions fans don’t need to worry about replacing Jared Goff. He has proven himself as a leader and a winner in Detroit, and the front office has made it clear that he is their guy. But Goff’s recent comments show a level of maturity that suggests he understands the long-term future of the franchise.

As Detroit continues to build for sustained success, the idea of Goff one day mentoring his successor is not far-fetched. It’s actually the kind of forward-thinking approach that winning franchises embrace. While that moment is still years away, it’s reassuring to know that whenever the time comes, Goff is open to helping the next man up—just as Case Keenum once did for him. For now, however, the Lions are in great hands, and their future remains as bright as ever.