For years, the narrative around the Detroit Lions has often pointed to Jared Goff as the team's weakest link. While that might be fair to a degree, it's not because he's not a star-- he's posted MVP-caliber numbers multiple times.
Even so, people have a hard time moving on from his early struggles. That's similar to what Sam Darnold is still going through, as fans have a tough time considering him a franchise quarterback even after winning a Super Bowl.
That's why some fans and analysts might think the Lions should be interested in Brendan Sorsby. The Texas Tech quarterback will reportedly declare for the supplemental NFL Draft, and several teams will certainly keep tabs on him. That said, the Lions definitely shouldn't be one of those, despite what CBS Sports' Josh Edwards speculated.
Lions can't afford to roll the dice on Brendan Sorsby
Contrary to what that judge in Texas may say, what Sorsby did was serious. The integrity of the game is of the utmost importance, and rewarding him would set a dangerous precedent, especially in a time when leagues are getting in bed with sportsbooks.
That aside, even if Sorsby won't do it again -- which is a big 'if' -- he could still be suspended. Of course, the Lions have a starting quarterback under contract for the next two years, so that shouldn't be a deal-breaker either, but it goes beyond that.
At this point, Sorsby is a P.R. nightmare. Whoever gets him -- or even makes a run at him -- will face serious scrutiny, and that's the last thing the Lions need right now. They're entering a bounce-back season and should focus solely on what takes place on the field.
Moreover, what kind of message would that send to Goff? Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes have praised him time and time again, so why would they go after his replacement before the season even starts?
Of course, having him develop for a couple of years before taking the reins would be a good plan. However, Goff is just 31, which is still pretty young for quarterback standards, so it's not like they have to brace themselves for his retirement or anything like that.
With all due respect to Brendan Sorsby, he's a very talented dual-threat prospect who may have a bright future in the league, and hopefully, he got the help he needed to navigate this. That said, as good as he might be, he's simply not worth all the trouble right now.
The Lions have a quarterback, critics be damned. Dan Campbell hangs his hat on hard work and accountability, and it would be hard to sell that message with Sorsby in the locker room.
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