Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff reflects on being traded to the team in 2021 and how it shaped his career.
In a recent interview on the Trading Cards podcast, Goff expressed gratitude for the trade, calling it “the greatest thing that ever happened to me, for my career and my development as a human.”
Initially, expectations were low for Goff as he took over a team that hadn’t seen a winning record in three years. However, after a rocky first season with only three wins, the Lions quickly developed and showcased promise in the following seasons. The team achieved a winning season of 9-8 in 2022 and secured a second-place finish in the NFC North. Goff also received his third Pro Bowl selection that year.
In 2023, the Lions’ success continued as they finished with a 12-5 record, topping their division and clinching the No. 3 seed in the playoffs. The team’s playoff journey included a historic win against Goff’s former team, the Los Angeles Rams, marking the Lions’ first playoff victory in 32 years. Despite falling to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, Goff’s performance was commendable, throwing for 4,575 yards, scoring 30 touchdowns, and boasting a 67.3 completion percentage.
Goff, now 29, has embraced his role as a leader on the Lions’ offense and within the Detroit community. He credits the supportive environment provided by the coaching staff and his teammates for empowering him to excel.
