Get Jared Goff Back On Track
Prior to literally any other issue, rectifying Goff’s concerning regression needs to be at the top of the list. The former Golden Bear set the league on fire in 2017 and 2018, passing for almost 8,500 yards and 60 touchdowns; a passer rating over 100 in both seasons also caused some to begin putting Goff in the upper echelon of NFL signal callers.
But in 2019, the supposed franchise quarterback seemed to slip in more ways than one. As his passing attempts rose, his average yardage per attempt slipped by a full yard; he threw 10 fewer touchdowns than the previous season, and four more interceptions. His passer rating fell by a full 15 points, and while many blamed his supporting cast for lackluster seasons, a quarterback’s job is to overcome the shortcomings of his team.
When we look at deeper statistics, the numbers get even worse. Goff’s bread and butter as a passer was in the play action game, in large part due to excellent synergy with Gurley. However, as Gurley’s health declined in 2019 and the run game began to fade, so did Goff; his 64.5% completion percentage on play action throws was good for 21st in the NFL. He finished 30th in deep-ball completion percentage, and perhaps worst of all, 30th in completion percentage with a clean pocket.
If the Rams intend to make good on the promises and potential of the past few seasons, Goff needs to be what he was prior to last season. In no uncertain terms, this means replacing the loss of Gurley to Atlanta in every way they can. It means finding another true #1 receiver, as Cooks also departed via a trade with Houston. While Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp are both exceptional players, they both perform better as a second or third fiddle to a true top target. However they choose to do it, fixing Goff is priority number one.