It is a new era for the Detroit Lions organization, as they will call on Jared Goff to be their new starting quarterback this season. And for new Lions quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell, he is already feeling a sense of optimism with Goff.
Brunell is well familiar with just what it takes to make it in the NFL. As he is a former three-time Pro Bowler himself, Brunell also watched up close on some of the best quarterbacks the NFL has ever seen during his time in the league, including Drew Brees. Brunell most notably backed up Brees during the New Orleans Saints' Super Bowl-winning run over the 2009 season.
Even after a mere one preseason game and multiple practices in training camp, Brunell is already seeing some Brees-esque traits from Goff.
“He has a lot of qualities that I saw in Drew Brees,” Brunell said. “Really, the passion for the game, the work ethic, the leadership. There are some similarities there, which is great to see.”
Brunell has been working closely with Goff ever since his arrival in Detroit after being involved in the blockbuster Matthew Stafford trade. So far, Brunell believes that the former Los Angeles Rams starting quarterback is adjusting well to featuring in a new offensive system.
“I’ve been impressed with Jared from day one,” Brunell said. “Let’s start with the person. He’s a hard worker. He has a great attitude. He’s a very good leader. As far as him on the field, you guys have seen it, he can throw that ball. He makes good decisions with it, and he’s really grown into this offense to the point where he’s doing a good job with it.
“It’s been fun coaching him. He’s great to coach, because he’s coachable. When he does make a mistake, he responds well. He learns from it, and that’s all you can ask for in your quarterback room.”
Goff joins the Lions following a five-season stint with the Rams. At times, he lived up to the expectations of being a No. 1 overall draft pick, which included his 4,688 passing yards and 32 passing touchdowns campaign over the 2018 season.
As Goff is not expected to feature again in preseason, his remaining first-team reps with the offense ahead of the upcoming season will now solely come in scheduled practices.