Jared Goff's Future Becomes Clear in Latest Lions Analysis
December 21, 2025, Detroit, Michigan, USA: December 21 2025: Jared Goff 16 during the Detroit Lions vs Pittsburgh Steelers at Ford Field in Detroit MI. Brook Ward / Apparent Media Group. Detroit USA - ZUMAa234 20251221_zsa_a234_625 Copyright: xAMGx
December 21, 2025, Detroit, Michigan, USA: December 21 2025: Jared Goff 16 during the Detroit Lions vs Pittsburgh Steelers at Ford Field in Detroit MI. Brook Ward / Apparent Media Group. Detroit USA - ZUMAa234 20251221_zsa_a234_625 Copyright: xAMGx
A new Lions analysis makes Jared Goff's future clear. As Detroit looks toward the 2026 NFL Draft, its franchise quarterback isn't going anywhere. The real question is who the team will bring in to be his backup.
Recently, Jimmy Liao of the Lions Wire has published an analysis of the 2026 Draft need for quarterbacks. While addressing the positional needs for the Detroit Lions, he recommended QB Goff fit for the upcoming NFL season.
For his analysis, he considered multiple parameters, which include age and medical concerns.
QB1 Goff was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the 2016 NFL Draft as pick no. 1. Since then, Goff has been a top performer for a decade. During the latest 2025 season, he played in all 17 games, scored 34 touchdowns while throwing for 4,564 yards (2nd in the NFL for yards as well as TDs).
Last year, Goff earned a Pro Football Focus grade of 77.7. Goff’s durability allowed the Lions to maintain offensive rhythm and chemistry without the disruption of a backup.
DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 05: Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell talks to Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff 16 during the Detroit Lions versus the Green Bay Packers game on Thursday December 5, 2024 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI. Photo by Steven King/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA DEC 05 Packers at Lions EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon258202412052254
DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 05: Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell talks to Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff 16 during the Detroit Lions versus the Green Bay Packers game on Thursday December 5, 2024 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI. Photo by Steven King/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA DEC 05 Packers at Lions EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon258202412052254
Considering the age factor, the 31-year-old QB was cleared and deemed fit by Lioa for his 2026 season’s endeavours. In fact, since 2022, the quarterback has started in all regular-season NFL games.
Liao's second parameter was the medical concerns. Although Goff is gradually getting older, the analyst decided he does not have any problems for the 2026 NFL season.
But Liao did raise a concern regarding a positional need for the Detroit Lions. Goff has not missed a single game since 2021, but this might not remain the case forever. The Lions need a reliable QB2 option.
Based on his assessment, Goff is fit for the upcoming NFL season, passing, with MVP buzz already surrounding the shot-caller. But a QB2 for the franchise needs to be finalized.
Jared Goff Could Get Strategic QB2 Support from a 2026 NFL Draft Prospect
As suggested by Lioa and other NFL analysts, the Detroit Lions might go for a developmental quarterback prospect for the QB2.
It is also necessary to address the backup uncertainty, as QB2 Teddy Bridgewater(33) is in and out of his retirement.
The Lions could pursue these quarterbacks for their 2026 NFL endeavor: Carson Beck and Ty Simpson.
Carson Beck of the Miami Hurricanes is a highly experienced QB who led his team to the 2025 College Football Championship.
He is best known for his elite pocket passing, rapid processing, and extensive experience at both the Georgia Bulldogs and the Hurricanes. He covered 3,175 yards and scored 26 touchdowns.
Another option is QB Ty Simpson of the Alabama Crimson Tide. The shot-caller scored 27 touchdowns while throwing for 3,282 yards.
What do you think about the QB2 prospects? Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!
Written by
Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker
Edited by
Aadesh Dhote