Lions: 3 team needs with 7th pick in 2021 NFL Draft
3. Quarterback
Last month, the Los Angeles Rams traded Jared Goff, two future first-round picks and a third-round pick to the Lions for Matthew Stafford. Stafford managed to become one of the game’s most prolific passers during his tenure in Detroit despite minimal playoff success. Now, with Goff in the building, it gives this team a new leader.
On one hand, Goff is a former number one overall pick, was the man under center in Los Angeles. for one of the most prolific offenses of all-time, he’s been a Pro Bowler and made a Super Bowl appearance in 2018. These feats were only a couple of years ago, providing the hope is there that he can perform at a high level once again.
On the other hand, he had everything perfectly put around him to succeed from coach to offensive weapons when he had his best season (this won’t be the case in Detroit), and Goff took a step back in 2020 performance-wise. This resulted in the Rams giving up on him in the midst of his four-year, $134 million extension he earned in 2019.
The jury will be out on whether or not Goff is the answer to fill Stafford’s shoes as the Lions’ quarterback moving forward. If Goff doesn’t appear to be the one, Detroit can select a passer at seventh overall. It won’t be necessary to start the rookie from day one however, this provides Goff with a competitor, possibly motivating Goff to perform at a high level. Furthermore, after sitting their rookie quarterback for a few seasons, that particular player would be groomed under Goff and more comfortable handling the offense once his time comes.
Most mocks who link the Lions with a future franchise quarterback mostly feature either Trey Lance, Justin Fields and some have Zach Wilson drafted to the Motor City. Among the three, Lance has been connected the most with the Lions. Lance isn’t taken seriously by everyone as he plays against lesser competition talent-wise compared to the other quarterbacks in the class.
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Still, the North Dakota State product is a project who can become a real success given he gets the right amount of time to learn the pro game. His upside is shown through his instincts, ability to make difficult throws, and noticeable mobility. A few years down the line given the Lions placing the right pieces around him, we could look back and say he was one of the best to come out in 2021.