Detroit Lions - Jared Goff enters Week 1 with a new offensive coordinator, multiple changes across the offensive line and a Lions team trying to rebound from a 9-8 season that ended outside the playoffs. With another season of championship expectations surrounding the team, the off-season work must be enough to carry them all the way this time.
Goff discussed Drew Petzing’s offense, Penei Sewell’s move to left tackle, protection communication, Brandon Staley’s Saints defense and why the 2026 Lions have to establish their own identity.
Week 1 Finally Brings An Opponent
Training camp is finished and the Lions can finally prepare for another team. It has been eight months since their last meaningful game, and Sunday provides the first real test of whether the timing, communication and execution built throughout the offseason can hold up when an opponent begins forcing adjustments.
Reporter’s question: “How thrilled are you to get on the field and actually face somebody and get a game actually?”
Jared Goff welcomed the change from competing against his own defense, saying, “Yeah, it feels good to have someone except our own guys to go against.” He added, “We’re excited, man. Good opponent coming in and we’re able to get some good looks today and good feel for it.”
The Identity Behind Goff’s Optimism
The Lions went 9-8 and finished last in the NFC North after entering 2025 with championship expectations. With much of the roster’s top-end talent still in place, the larger question is what Goff believes can separate this team when injuries, personnel changes or difficult stretches begin testing the locker room.
Reporter’s question: “You guys have such good topline talent on your roster. What is sort of the intangible or the X factor that gives you the most optimism about this season?”
Goff pointed directly to the type of players Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell bring into the building, saying, “Everyone in this building is made of the right stuff. Brad, Dan don’t bring in people that aren’t.” He added, “It multiplies and exudes and you can feel it through everybody.” Asked to define that “right stuff,” Goff answered, “Grit, right? ... perseverance and hard work and doing a little bit more and pushing a little bit harder.”
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