Live from Detroit: Jared Goff’s Career Year and a Surprising Take from Kyle Shanahan
Jared Goff is having a season to remember, statistically the best of his career. His numbers speak for themselves:
- 33 touchdown passes
- 71.4% completion percentage
- 112.2 passer rating
Each stat marks a career high, showcasing a player who is not only more accurate but also tougher and more confident than during his tenure with the Rams. However, it’s not just Goff who has improved. He’s thriving behind what many consider the best offensive line in football, paired with an elite running game, top-tier receivers, and a brilliant play-caller.
Kyle Shanahan’s Take on Goff’s Evolution
On Saturday, I had the chance to ask 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan how he thinks Goff has grown since his Rams days. His response was insightful and perhaps a bit surprising:
“I think it’s hard for any quarterback to be successful if they’re not in a good situation,” Shanahan said. “But I think Goff was unbelievable with the Rams. Their Super Bowl year, I thought he was a borderline MVP player. I know not every year was like that for him just statistically and stuff. I think the following years weren’t quite as good, but when his team’s real good around him, he is as good as any quarterback in this league. So, he was a real hard guy to beat in L.A. and the way he’s been playing with Detroit, I almost want to say better, but that’s how good he was earlier too. So, it was a hell of a rebound for him and I’m happy to see him doing it.”
Is Shanahan Criticizing Goff?
At first glance, Shanahan’s comments might seem like a backhanded compliment, implying that Goff isn’t elite unless surrounded by elite talent. But in reality, that observation rings true for most quarterbacks, including Shanahan’s own signal-caller, Brock Purdy.
Swap Goff’s name with Purdy’s, and the statement remains accurate. Success in the NFL often hinges on the quality of a quarterback’s supporting cast. For Goff, his current setup in Detroit has allowed him to flourish and prove his doubters wrong.
Jared Goff is showing the league that with the right environment, he can be “as good as any quarterback,” and Shanahan’s remarks highlight just how far he has come.
