For the second straight year, Detroit Lions quarterback is considered a top-10 quarterback by those within the NFL.
ESPN, continuing their series of top-10 rankings based on a survey of NFL executives, coaches, and scouts, dropped their top quarterback list for the 2025 season, and Goff finished eighth on the list. That’s one step up from his ranking last year.
“He’s developed into one of the game’s best pure passers,” an anonymous NFC defensive coach told ESPN. “He doesn’t turn the ball over like
he used to. He’s a reliable quarterback with a real arm. He’s not just a dropback passer who makes s--- happen. He’s become more than that.”
Goff is coming off his best statistical season to date. He set career-highs in touchdown passes (37), yards per pass attempt (8.6), passer rating (111.8), QBR (68.4), and completion percentage (72.4). The turnovers were a little higher than normal (12 interceptions), but five of those did come in a single game against the Houston Texans.
Another insider praised Goff’s ability to stay comfortable in the pocket—something this AFC scout credited to Detroit’s coaching staff.
“He’s improved in his ability to reset his feet and deliver the ball accurately, and it’s changed his career,” they said. “The coaching staff in Detroit gave him a greater sense of calm in the pocket, and he’s capitalized on it.”
Goff ranked third among NFC quarterbacks on the list, only training Jayden Daniels (fifth) and Matthew Stafford (sixth). Interestingly, Goff is listed ahead of Super Bowl champion Jalen Hurts, who came in at ninth.
No other NFC North quarterbacks made the list, although Jordan Love was the second honorable mention, suggesting he’s in the top-12.
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