Jared Goff and his wife, Christen Harper, spoke exclusively with PEOPLE at the NFL Honors red carpet on Thursday, Feb. 5, in New Orleans, where they revealed they were expecting their first child together during the offseason. Harper shared with PEOPLE that she feels like she’s being “welcomed into this special mom’s club.”

“[The NFL Honors] is always one of my favorite events, but sharing something like this made it extra special,” she says. “It’s been tough keeping it a secret for so long. It’s just nice to have everyone know now, and we’re all on the same page, and I can finally be excited about this incredible journey ahead.”

“Next year, we’ll have a little supporter cheering us on, which will be so fun. It’ll give me something else to focus on during game days, other than stressing about the field,” she adds, expressing happiness that the baby is due in the off-season.

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model also said they are “looking forward to enjoying this time together and cherishing every moment.” Goff echoed her excitement, telling PEOPLE that he’s “always dreamed” of becoming a father.

“I know it will give me a new perspective on life, and it will be amazing,” the expectant father said, before adding that he believes Harper will be the “best mom.” He added, “I can’t wait to see her as a mom.”

Harper shared with PEOPLE that discovering she was pregnant was “such a special moment.”

“I don’t think anyone can truly prepare you for that moment,” she says. “When you find out, it’s a mix of shock, excitement, and everything else.”