Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is facing criticism for his poor performance in the team’s surprising Divisional Round loss to the Washington Commanders.

Despite coming off one of the best seasons of his career, doubts remain about his ability to lead the Lions to a Super Bowl.

Looking ahead, the Lions’ roster in 2025 may look very different, but Goff is expected to return due to the four years remaining on his lucrative contract, worth an average of $53 million annually. As such, the team has little choice but to publicly back their veteran QB.

Goff also has the support of his teammates. All-Pro center Frank Ragnow, who has been snapping to Goff for four years, made his loyalty clear after the game.

During their time together, the Lions have transformed from a struggling franchise to an NFC powerhouse. However, with just one NFC Championship Game appearance, questions about Goff’s playoff viability are valid.

Ragnow, though, strongly defends his quarterback. “I will ride with Jared Goff until the day I die,” he told reporters. “In football or life, he’s a standup human being, leader, and player.

I’ll always have his back.” His comments reflect the locker room’s respect for Goff, who remains composed on the field and complements head coach Dan Campbell’s fiery demeanor.

Goff’s regular-season stats back up his teammates’ faith.

He recorded the second-most passing yards in the league (4,629) and led Detroit to 15 wins. However, his playoff performances tell a different story. Against the Commanders, he turned the ball over four times and was thoroughly outplayed by Jayden Daniels.

This marked the second consecutive postseason in which Goff lost to a young quarterback, following a defeat by Brock Purdy the previous year.

As the Lions enter the offseason, they will evaluate their shortcomings and plan improvements. While Ragnow may not acknowledge it, addressing Goff’s playoff struggles should be a key focus.

The team’s defense also deserves criticism, as Goff isn’t solely to blame for the loss. Moreover, he wasn’t responsible for the failed trick play involving Jameson Williams that ended in an interception.

Still, as one of the NFL’s highest-paid players, Goff is expected to elevate those around him, even in tough situations.

Despite recent setbacks, there’s still time for Goff to prove he’s the right quarterback for Detroit. As long as teammates like Ragnow remain steadfast in their belief, Goff has a chance to solidify his place.

However, with each playoff failure, that confidence could erode, potentially jeopardizing the strong foundation Campbell has built for the Lions.