Jared Goff might not be the flashiest name in the NFL, but he’s quietly climbing back into the MVP conversation.
The Detroit Lions quarterback, now entering his 10th NFL season and fifth with the team, is coming off a strong 2024 campaign—even if it ended in a rough postseason loss to the Washington Commanders. That stumble seems to have only fueled his fire, and national analysts are starting to take notice.
NFL.com’s Judy Battista recently included Goff in her list of dark horse MVP candidates for 2025, alongside names like Ja’Marr Chase, Jayden Daniels, and Jalen Hurts. Battista noted Goff received third-, fourth-, and fifth-place MVP votes last year and credited Detroit’s explosive offense as a key factor in his continued rise.
Yes, Detroit lost offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and two key linemen in Kevin Zeitler and Frank Ragnow, but Goff still has plenty working in his favor. New play-caller John Morton says he’s not looking to overhaul much, which means Goff will be operating in a system he’s comfortable with—and that’s dangerous for defenses.
Quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell even said Goff has “little left to prove.” And it’s hard to argue. The former No. 1 pick has revived his career in Detroit, and now he’s locked in on chasing what’s eluded him so far: a Super Bowl ring.
If the Lions can keep winning like they did last season, don’t be surprised if Goff starts making a serious push for MVP votes again. He’s no longer just a game manager—he’s a true franchise leader, and 2025 might be the year he finally gets the recognition he deserves.