By Sunday 
Quarterback’s influence signals a new era—and a new level of accountability—in Detroit
When you’re riding the wave of a 15-2 season, most quarterbacks would simply buckle in for the next run. Jared Goff? He grabbed the wheel.
The Detroit Lions’ decision to involve their franchise quarterback in the search for a new offensive coordinator wasn’t just about collaboration—it was a declaration. Goff isn’t just Detroit’s quarterback anymore. He’s part architect of the future. But with influence comes responsibility, and 2025 could be the season that defines his legacy in Motown.
A New Chapter Without Ben Johnson
The Lions’ 2024 success came with a price: poaching. One of the biggest losses was offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, the mastermind who helped reshape Goff’s narrative and reframe Detroit as a legitimate contender. Johnson left for a head coaching job in Chicago, leaving behind a system that had unlocked the best version of Goff yet.
In the three seasons under Johnson, Goff put up staggering numbers:
13,642 yards, 96 touchdowns, and just 31 interceptions.
His 2024 season alone saw career highs in both yardage (4,629) and passing touchdowns (37).
With Johnson gone, the Lions had a choice: start fresh or double down on what was working. They chose the latter—and asked Goff to weigh in.
Goff’s Voice Gains Volume
Dan Campbell didn’t mince words when revealing how much input Goff had in the hiring process. According to Campbell, the quarterback’s growing comfort and command of the offense were hard to ignore.
“Everything we wanted him to do in the offense (last season), he did. And then he began to bring stuff to us… Let me get to this play. I know I’ve got these options in the bag. But let me get to this, as well,” Campbell shared. “That’s beginning to show.”
That’s not just quarterback talk. That’s the voice of a field general trusted to help select his next OC.
John Morton: The Goff-Approved Pick
Enter John Morton. A name not many expected. His last offensive coordinator gig was back in 2017 with the Jets. He hasn’t been in that seat for a while, but he had something that caught Goff’s attention—an ideology that aligns with his evolution.
This wasn’t a flashy hire. It was a strategic one. And Goff’s fingerprints are all over it.
For better or worse, that means Goff will be tied to Morton’s success—or failure. If the offense regresses, or Goff’s production dips, the decision to bring in Morton could become a turning point for Detroit’s front office when evaluating their future at QB.
Pressure Mounts on and off the Field
Goff is still under contract, but the financials grow heavy quickly.
- 2025: $32.6 million
- 2026: $69.6 million
- 2027: $54.6 million
These aren’t small numbers. Detroit’s commitment is clear—but it isn’t blind. Another strong season solidifies Goff as the guy. But a slip? It could open the door to a massive shift.
Fortunately, the pieces around him remain. Ten of the eleven offensive starters from last year return. The chemistry is there. The talent is intact. It’s now on Goff to steer the ship, with Morton riding shotgun.
Legacy Season in Detroit?
The stakes are high. Goff helped choose his new play-caller. He’s got his preferred system. He has the roster continuity most quarterbacks dream of. The conditions are ideal for success—or scrutiny.
For Jared Goff, 2025 isn’t just another season. It’s a referendum on his vision, his voice, and his value in Detroit.
He asked for the keys. Now it’s time to drive.