The Detroit Lions should not draft a quarterback in 2023

Much speculation has been surrounding the Detroit Lions and whether or not they should try and draft a quarterback who could have a higher ceiling than Jared Goff.  When Goff got traded from the Rams to the Lions, many people didn’t really think much of it as Goff was coming off back to back subpar seasons after two electric years in LA.

Now, in year two with the Detroit Lions, Jared Goff looks like his old self again.  The main issue with Goff is he is not an elite talent.  His arm isn’t particularly strong nor can he do much damage with his legs.  He is a prototypical pocket passer who is benefiting from both an exceptional play caller in Ben Johnson and an elite offensive line.

Currently, the Lions have the 4th and 15th overall picks.  They have their own first round pick and the Rams’ first round pick when they made the trade for Matthew Stafford.  It’s clear that their offense is playoff caliber, but their main issue is the defense, which is arguably the worst in the league.

In fact, the Lions aren’t even finished with their rebuilding phase in my opinion.  Until they can field a competent defense, the team should pour most of their free agency and draft attention to that side of the ball.  Perhaps the Detroit Lions do decide to move off of Jared Goff for a higher ceiling player much like the Chiefs did going from Alex Smith to Patrick Mahomes.

However, taking a quarterback in 2023 is not the right time.  Perhaps they might find someone they like in the middle rounds, but the hit rate among quarterbacks is low even picking them in the first round.

To me, the best course of action is to focus on the defense in free agency and the draft, and give it a couple years to see what the team can do and if they can make and do damage in the playoffs.  If it becomes clear in, let’s say, 2024 that Jared Goff can’t get them over the hump, then perhaps they take a quarterback.

Jared Goff has played very well this season and is a big reason why the Lions are battling for a Wild Card spot.  They should continue to keep Goff under center for the time being.