The Detroit Lions are finally getting close to being fully healthy after a 2024 season spent watching never-ending key injuries. With this in mind, the Lions didn't need to make a series of splashy moves, but simply wait for the roster to get healthy. The one notable exception is planning for a potential emergency behind starter Jared Goff. The veteran quarterback remains an incredibly popular figure in Detroit, and this is for good reason.
Los Angeles dealt the quarterback to Detroit in exchange for Matthew Stafford in an effort to contend and dump Goff's cap. While both quarterbacks have been incredible, Goff continues to go overlooked and underrated. With that said, the Lions have done an extremely poor job of preparing for any injuries to the position. In the preseason opener in the Hall of Fame game, this was put on full display.
Detroit put on a clinic of how not to play the position, with Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker both struggling. Allen was particularly awful, unable to complete easy throws and turning the ball over twice. One of the interceptions was an anticipation route that the quarterback managed to throw perfectly to the defender to help set up a Chargers touchdown.
The Lions Must Explore Upgrading the Backup Quarterback Position
Already, there have been suggestions that the Lions explore signing current free agent Carson Wentz. It is impossible to believe the veteran quarterback wouldn't be a vast upgrade over Allen. While three preseason games remain to change minds, it doesn't seem the Lions have given themselves a chance if Goff goes down.
It is important to note that this isn't saying there was an easy path to finding someone capable of playing at Goff's level. Rather, if the veteran were to miss a handful of snaps a game or two, Detroit has failed to give itself a chance to hang in games. Even with the talent around him, Allen has zero chance of winning a game that actually matters.
When you're unable to beat Chargers depth pieces, this is hardly a hot take. The Lions would be wise to correct the offseason mistake and begin actively searching for possible upgrades. Wentz and C.J. Beathard are the only notable names remaining in free agency.
However, roster cuts are going to provide options for the Lions that have a high chance of being upgrades over Hooker or Allen. It at least demands exploring after a rare Detroit offseason miss.