When ESPN’s Peter Schrager declared that Jared Goff is “the single most IMPORTANT player in the NFC this season,” it wasn’t just a hot take—it was a reflection of how far both Goff and the Detroit Lions have come. Once viewed as a stopgap quarterback after being traded by the Los Angeles Rams, Goff is now the leader of a team with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations.
The Detroit Lions are entering 2025 with a different level of expectation. No longer the underdogs or a feel-good story, they’re now viewed as NFC North favorites and contenders for a conference title. That shift in perception starts with Jared Goff. The quarterback is coming off one of the most efficient seasons of his career, showing poise, accuracy, and maturity in leading the Lions to a deep playoff run. With offensive coordinator Ben Johnson staying put despite head coaching interest from around the league, Goff is in a stable environment primed for even more success.
In a conference stacked with talent—from Brock Purdy in San Francisco to Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia—Goff’s role stands out. Why? Because his performance could directly determine whether the Lions take the next step or stall out. Unlike teams like the 49ers or Eagles, who have depth and recent postseason success, the Lions are still trying to prove they belong among the elite. Goff holds the key.
There’s also the narrative aspect. Goff’s journey from former No. 1 overall pick to being cast aside by Sean McVay, and now to franchise cornerstone in Detroit, is a compelling redemption arc. A strong 2025 campaign could redefine his legacy and silence any remaining critics who still view him as a system quarterback.
With a strong supporting cast—Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, and one of the league’s best offensive lines—Goff has the tools to thrive. But make no mistake, the pressure is on. If he plays at a high level, Detroit could reach heights it hasn’t seen in decades. If he falters, the Lions risk becoming just another team with unrealized potential.
That’s why Jared Goff isn’t just important—he might be the most pivotal figure in the entire NFC.
