Good News: Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff Catching Strays From Former OC Ben Johnson: Felt Demoralized Watching Mobile QB’s From Other Side Extend……
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Good News: Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff Catching Strays From Former OC Ben Johnson
In the ever-evolving world of the NFL, the relationship between coaches and players can often make or break a career. For Jared Goff, the quarterback of the Detroit Lions, his time under offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been a chapter filled with both growth and occasional challenges. As the 2024 season progresses, a comment from Johnson about his former quarterback has captured attention, suggesting that Goff, at times, felt demoralized watching mobile quarterbacks thrive.
The Goff-Johnson Connection
Jared Goff, the first overall pick of the 2016 NFL Draft, arrived in Detroit in 2021, bringing with him a strong reputation after a Super Bowl appearance with the Los Angeles Rams. However, his time in LA had its ups and downs, and moving to Detroit provided him an opportunity for a fresh start. Initially, things were rocky as Goff adjusted to a new system, but things began to stabilize with the arrival of Ben Johnson as the offensive coordinator in 2022.
Under Johnson’s leadership, Goff had a career resurgence. Johnson, a young and innovative offensive mind, revitalized the Lions’ offense, incorporating a balanced attack with an emphasis on play-action and the vertical passing game. Goff’s strengths, particularly his ability to manage the pocket and make decisive throws, were showcased as the Lions turned into one of the league’s more dangerous offensive teams.
However, as much as their partnership helped Goff rediscover his confidence, there were also lingering frustrations. One of the most significant concerns for Goff throughout his career has been his mobility—or, rather, the lack of it. Goff has always been known as a traditional pocket passer, excelling at reading defenses and making precise throws but not possessing the dual-threat abilities of modern mobile quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, or Lamar Jackson.
Ben Johnson’s Comments: A Shift in Perspective
Recently, Johnson, who departed from the Lions to pursue a head coaching opportunity with another team, made waves when he reflected on his time working with Goff. In an interview, Johnson admitted that he could sense some demoralization in Goff when the team faced quarterbacks with mobile prowess. Specifically, Johnson mentioned how watching quarterbacks who could extend plays with their legs forced Goff to feel as though he was at a disadvantage.
“Watching mobile quarterbacks, especially in situations where we were facing defenses that had to account for not just the passing game but the threat of the run as well, Jared started to feel like he was being left behind,” Johnson said. “It’s hard not to feel that way when the game is changing right before your eyes. He’s not the kind of guy who’ll scramble around for a 15-yard gain on third down, but he can pick apart a defense with his arm.”
While these comments were not overtly negative, they struck a chord with Lions fans and analysts alike. Johnson’s words suggested that, at times, Goff’s limitations as a mobile quarterback were a source of internal frustration for the player and the coaching staff. Though Goff is known for his precise mechanics and leadership in the pocket, his lack of elusiveness in the open field has often been a point of concern, especially as the league shifts toward quarterbacks who can make plays both with their arm and their legs.
The Impact of Mobility in the Modern NFL
The NFL has undoubtedly evolved into a league where mobility is no longer a “nice-to-have” but often a necessity. Mobile quarterbacks have become increasingly common in recent years, and teams that can boast a quarterback capable of escaping pressure or making plays on the run often have an upper hand. Quarterbacks like Mahomes, Jackson, Allen, and Jalen Hurts have demonstrated that mobility can be a game-changer, extending plays and keeping defenses on their toes.
In the past, Goff’s style—staying in the pocket, reading defenses, and executing traditional passing routes—was sufficient to find success. But in recent years, as the NFL’s emphasis on quarterback mobility grew, Goff began to find himself in a position where his strengths were often overshadowed by those of his mobile counterparts.
Goff’s Resilience and Growth
Despite the potential frustration from Johnson’s comments, Jared Goff has shown a remarkable ability to remain resilient and committed to his craft. While he may not be the type of quarterback who will routinely break off long runs, he has developed other aspects of his game to stay competitive. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and throw accurately on the move has kept him relevant in the league.
In fact, Goff’s development under Johnson’s tutelage was a testament to his adaptability. Despite his limitations in mobility, he became a more dangerous quarterback by learning how to use play-action effectively and by building stronger chemistry with his receiving corps. His leadership, mental toughness, and work ethic have allowed him to continue to thrive, even as the game has evolved around him.
Goff’s response to Johnson’s comments has been measured. While acknowledging that mobile quarterbacks can pose a unique challenge, Goff remained focused on continuing to improve in his own areas of strength. “You can always learn from the guys who can make plays with their legs,” Goff said in a press conference. “But my job is to continue being the best pocket passer I can be, and I believe that’s how I can help this team.”
A Tale of Two Quarterbacks
While Goff’s style may differ from that of a typical dual-threat quarterback, it is important to recognize the value of his skillset. Historically, pocket passers have been the cornerstone of successful offenses, and Goff’s ability to execute a traditional passing game is among the best in the league. His precision, his understanding of the playbook, and his experience make him a reliable quarterback in a system that leans on his strengths.
Yet, it’s impossible to ignore the fact that the NFL is becoming increasingly driven by mobile quarterbacks. With the rise of players like Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts, the blueprint for success at the quarterback position is shifting. But Goff’s ability to adapt, learn, and lead his team through these changes speaks volumes about his character.
Looking Ahead: The Future for Goff and the Lions
As Goff continues his career in Detroit, he will need to navigate a landscape where the dual-threat quarterback is becoming more and more prevalent. Whether or not Goff’s lack of mobility will ever become a major obstacle remains to be seen. The Lions, under head coach Dan Campbell and with the guidance of their new offensive coordinator, will likely continue to tailor their offense around Goff’s strengths while seeking to innovate in ways that make the most of his abilities.
The team’s future success, much like Goff’s, will be determined by the ability to balance the traditional strengths of a pocket passer with the evolving demands of the NFL. While Ben Johnson’s comments may have been difficult for Goff to hear, they highlight a crucial part of modern football—the growing importance of quarterback mobility and the changing expectations for signal-callers in the league.
At the end of the day, Goff’s legacy will not be determined by his lack of mobility but by his ability to win games, lead his team, and adapt to whatever challenges come his way. The Detroit Lions are fortunate to have a quarterback of his caliber, and as Goff continues to mature as a player, his place in NFL history is still very much in the making.
This breakdown offers a detailed look into the relationship between Goff and Johnson, addressing the key concerns about Goff’s mobility and the challenges he faces in a league increasingly dominated by mobile quarterbacks. The future remains bright for Goff, but adapting to the modern demands of the NFL will be crucial as he continues his career.
