Report Lions Closing Secret Deal To Sign Rams MVP In A Blockbuster Trade
In a recent analysis of NFL offseasons, ESPN’s Seth Walder ranked the Detroit Lions’ moves among the bottom 10, primarily due to the four-year, $212 million contract extension for quarterback Jared Goff. However, Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit offers a compelling counter-argument, defending the Lions’ decision and providing a more optimistic view of their offseason strategy.
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Walder’s Critique of Goff’s Extension with Detroit Lions
Walder’s critique centers on the financial commitment to Goff, suggesting that his contract could be a significant burden for the Detroit Lions in the long run. “It’s not a move I can endorse at that price,” Walder stated. He questioned Goff’s ability to maintain his performance and implied that Detroit’s offensive success is largely due to the brilliance of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.
Goff’s Proven Performance and Value for Detroit Lions
Reisman disputes Walder’s assessment, emphasizing that Goff has shown substantial growth and has been instrumental in the Lions’ offensive resurgence. He argues that attributing Detroit’s success solely to Johnson undermines Goff’s tangible contributions on the field.
Reisman highlights Goff’s impressive stats since Week 9 of the 2022 season, where he recorded 7,109 yards and 47 touchdowns, with a passer rating of 100.0. These metrics place Goff among the top quarterbacks in the league, demonstrating his capability and justifying his contract extension.
Comparisons to Other Quarterbacks and Contract Strategies
Walder’s analysis draws a comparison between Goff’s contract and that of Jacksonville Jaguars’ quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Walder justified Lawrence’s five-year, $275 million extension despite his recent struggles, citing salary cap inflation as a mitigating factor. Reisman finds this inconsistency problematic, as it seems to discount Goff’s proven track record in favor of a less experienced player.