In recent years, NFL trade deals have undeniably left a mark on the landscape of the game.
In 2019, the Los Angeles Rams made a significant investment by offering a market-level contract to Jared Goff, in spite of potential uncertainties surrounding his role in reaching the team’s goals.
Nonetheless, just two years later, the team managed to offload Goff’s guaranteed money, acquiring Matthew Stafford and tucking in an extra first-round pick.
This move provoked the Detroit Lions to seize an opportunity. With the reality of having to foot Goff’s bill for two seasons, they accepted two first-round picks and a third-round pick, thus picking up Goff’s contract.
The question then arose: why not play him?
Despite a rather modest 2021 starter record of 3-10-1, Goff’s numbers appeared strong. His performance improved last year, significantly benefiting the team and leading to increasing speculation about his extension beyond the 2024 season.
The Lions’ rotation also experienced a positive shift, moving them closer to seriously competing for the No.1 seed in the NFC, and potentially positioning Goff as a serious MVP candidate.
However, recent games have seen a downturn in Goff’s performance. His encounters with the Bears and the Packers were marked by a series of interceptions and fumbles, casting a dark cloud over his otherwise bright season.
The 8-3 Lions are now faced with a challenging game in New Orleans, against the Saints who are desperate to cling on to their NFC South title hopes.
With six turnovers in the last two games, Jared Goff is suddenly in danger of the Lions deciding that, to get to where they want to go, they might need an upgrade. https://t.co/dVbxOEPHcu
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) December 3, 2023
The remaining schedule also features potentially winnable games, excluding a Week 17 trip to Dallas.
However, with the recent slip in performance, the Lions need to be cautious about fending off the Vikings or the Packers for the division crown.
The current trajectory of the Lions might see them secure the No. 3 seed in the NFC.
However, just like the Vikings’ fate a year ago, the Lions may only manage a wild-card round win and fall short in the divisional round against one of the NFC elite teams, leaving them exposed to losing to the sixth seed at home, whether that’s the Vikings, the Seahawks, or the Rams.
