Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is generating headlines for his ranking among division rivals. Adding another layer to this, he was rated the worst quarterback in the division by Kurt Benkert, the Green Bay Packers' former QB.

“Ain’t no way,” wrote Benkert on X yesterday. “Goff is solid production-wise in that scheme and with those players, but comparing all NFC North QBs in a vacuum, he’s ranking 4th for me."

The post was a reply to analyst and former NFL player Dan Orlovsky selecting Jared Goff as his number one QB in the division, with Jordan Love claiming the No. 2 spot.

According to Benkert’s listing, Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears is ranked No.1, followed by Jordan Love of the Packers, Kyler Murray of the Minnesota Vikings as third, and Goff as fourth.

“Kyler will have a great year imo. Caleb takes another step in that scheme. Love will keep being a killer,” he further added.

The former QB ranked the players “in a vacuum” rather than by their statistical production, meaning he isolated players' raw individual traits (such as dynamic playmaking, arm talent under pressure, etc.). 

Goff is a traditional pocket passer who extensively relies on his environment and rhythm to generate production. He possesses elite accuracy and high football IQ. The one criticism about him in the past few years has been his rushing production.

Since 2022, the Detroit Lions quarterback has consistently produced over 4,400 passing yards and at least 29 touchdowns while starting every game for Detroit.

In terms of rushing, though, he's only produced 282 rush yards in his five years with the Lions, with two scores.

The other QBs in the list heavily rely on mobility and improvisation. Goff wins with timing, anticipation, accuracy, and command inside structure.

Benkert Claims Another QB Could Have Led the Lions to the Playoffs Last Year

In 2025, the Detroit Lions narrowly missed the playoffs despite featuring a 9-8 winning record.

Considering the Lions' situation last season, Kurt Benkert claims that if it were Caleb Williams instead of Goff, the Lions would have made it to the playoffs. 

“Caleb leads that Lions team last year to the playoffs if he’s their QB,” wrote Kurt Benkert on X.

Last year, Goff threw for 4,564 yards and scored 34 TDs. He also maintained a CMP% of 68.0 while being intercepted just 8 times.

Moreover, in 2024, Goff even finished in the top 5 in the MVP list.

Regardless, Goff is expected to remain QB1 for the Lions in the coming season, with some analysts even generating MVP buzz around him. How do you think the 2026 season will look for Goff?

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote