Let’s be clear: if Jared Goff suffers an injury, the Lions will struggle as well. That’s not apocalyptic rhetoric, that’s simply the truth of Detroit. The Lions have endured that bitter reality for quite some time now. From David Blough to Tim Boyle, from Nate Sudfeld to Teddy Bridgewater, the Lions haven’t precisely been rich in options at QB2. As we approach 2025, it remains a precarious balance: Goff or nothing. But what if it didn’t need to be so grim? What if the Lions truly had a chance at something they’ve been without for years: a safety net? Not merely a warm presence holding a clipboard, but a quarterback with potential, quietly resting on another team’s bench. That name has sparked conversations among the fans. In the August 1 episode of Sports Talk Detroit, the host mentioned a name that appears to be worth a million dollars currently, considering the Lions’ depth chart. Kenny Pickett. “However, there are more skilled QBs available right now.” Kenny Pickett appears to be in top form at the moment. “I’d like to monitor the browns,” he mentioned.
Pickett’s path has been anything but ordinary, to say the least. Selected 20th overall by Pittsburgh in 2022, he was immersed in challenges right away. The man participated in 24 matches over two turbulent seasons. The findings? A 14–10 record, a 62.6% completion percentage, and an equal 13 touchdowns to 13 interceptions. Next was the shuffle: sidelined, sent to Philly to support Jalen Hurts, and ultimately traded to Cleveland in March 2025 in a low-profile deal for Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a fifth-round pick. At the Browns, he discovers himself surrounded by a strong group of quarterbacks. Joe Flacco, Pickett, along with newcomers Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Yes, he has been participating in first-team practices. However, all signs indicate that Joe Flacco will assume the QB1 position. That hamstring injury certainly didn’t improve his situation either. What distinguishes the Lions from the Browns? The former lacks depth, while the latter possesses it. What would you prefer: being QB2 in a team with more alternatives behind you, or a team where the depth chart pretty much finishes with you? Precisely. That’s where Pickett plays a role. Rumors are circulating that the Browns are open to trading one of the QBs to reduce the crowded roster. One of the newcomers was anticipated to depart, yet it could easily be Pickett
If the Lions pursued Pickett during the season (as Cleveland begins to reduce its quarterback roster), it likely wouldn’t require much effort. A selection from Day 3 might achieve it. Detroit possesses the draft picks, while Cleveland has an abundance of quarterbacks. And for a team aiming to achieve a deep playoff journey? A dependable backup is essential .
Pickett is more of a necessity than a desire. To be frank, if Jared Goff is out, that’s the end of the season for the Lions. The host reflected that feeling. “We all understand that if Jared Goff suffers a season-ending injury, our season is finished.” What if Goff has an ankle sprain and needs to be out for two weeks? Can we send someone out there to provide us an opportunity to succeed? “Negative.” That’s reasonable. Hendon Hooker has not succeeded in the starter evaluation. Teddy Bridgewater? A brief appearance in the playoffs, nothing else. Kyle Allen and Jake Fromm? Camp muscles. If Goff gets injured, Detroit’s quarterback situation shifts from playoff-worthy to urgent crisis. This issue was highlighted during the Hall of Fame game. Kyle Allen started the game and quickly threw two interceptions before the break. Hendon Hooker entered in the second half and appeared similarly unsettled, completing 3-of-6 passes for 18 yards and throwing an interception himself. Neither took any action to alleviate the burden on Goff’s shoulders. Dan Campbell couldn’t conceal it either: both substitutes had their highs and lows. Thus, pursuing Pickett would not be a ‘luxury’ decision. It’s more of a necessity than a desire. It has always been that way. A dependable backup might be the key factor separating an early departure from a playoff journey. Whether or not Kenny Pickett is involved, the Lions need to secure a QB2.
