By Mmesoma 
After two electrifying seasons under head coach Dan Campbell, the Detroit Lions find themselves at a critical crossroads. Once a rebuilding team, the Lions have emerged as a legitimate playoff contender in the NFC—but if they want to take the next step and seriously compete for a Super Bowl, many analysts agree on one urgent truth: Detroit needs a proven veteran quarterback, and they need him now.
Jared Goff’s Ceiling
Jared Goff has been serviceable, even impressive at times, leading the Lions to back-to-back playoff appearances. But despite his steady hand, there’s growing concern within NFL circles that Goff’s limitations—particularly in high-pressure moments and downfield aggressiveness—are holding the team back. With a loaded offense featuring Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, and a top-tier offensive line, the Lions may be just one elite signal-caller away from a title run.
“Goff is a good quarterback, no doubt,” said one NFC scout. “But when you’re up against Mahomes or Hurts or even Love in the NFC North now, you need someone who can go toe-to-toe with those guys and win the shootouts.”
The Championship Window
Detroit’s roster is built to win now. Aiden Hutchinson leads a fast and aggressive defense, while young stars on rookie contracts allow for flexibility in other areas. But that window won’t stay open forever. St. Brown and Hutchinson will soon command massive extensions. Gibbs will need to be paid. And the deeper the Lions go into win-now mode, the more pressure there is to upgrade the most important position on the field.
If Detroit hesitates too long, they risk falling into the dreaded “good-not-great” purgatory—making the playoffs, but never quite breaking through.
Veteran Options Available
With names like Kirk Cousins, Ryan Tannehill, and even Dak Prescott potentially on the move depending on how the 2025 season shapes up, the trade market for veteran QBs could be surprisingly active. One particularly intriguing option? Raiders QB Jimmy Garoppolo, who is reportedly available and could thrive in a play-action-heavy offense like Detroit’s.
Another possibility is Bengals backup Jake Browning, who impressed in spot starts and could be pried loose for the right draft capital. If Detroit is willing to part with a mid-round pick, they might land a steady hand capable of pushing Goff—or replacing him altogether if the moment demands it.
What’s Next?
GM Brad Holmes has earned praise for building this roster through smart drafting and calculated free-agent moves. But the next bold decision might be his most defining: whether to ride with Goff in a championship-or-bust season, or swing for the fences with a blockbuster quarterback trade.
The clock is ticking, and in a loaded NFC, staying passive could cost Detroit its best shot at hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.