Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is usually known for his calm demeanor and team-first attitude, but ahead of one of the most anticipated seasons of his career, he’s making headlines for a bold message aimed directly at Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert — and the larger narrative surrounding the two rising NFL franchises.

In a candid interview with NFL Network earlier this week, Goff opened up about his view of the growing rivalry between the Lions and Chargers, and his personal ambition to finally break through to the Super Bowl with Detroit.

“I respect Herbert — he’s a great talent,” Goff said. “But I’m not in this league to watch other guys shine. I’m here to win. And I think this is the year we take that final step.”

The remarks have sparked conversation across the league, as fans and analysts alike begin circling Week 5 — when Goff and Herbert are set to face off in what many believe could be a playoff preview or even a Super Bowl sneak peek.

A Budding Quarterback Rivalry?

While the Lions and Chargers don’t play in the same conference, their recent ascension has placed them on a collision course in the hearts and minds of football fans. Both teams are led by young, confident quarterbacks; both are built around explosive offenses and aggressive coaching; and both are desperate to prove they belong among the NFL elite.

Goff and Herbert have now met twice in their careers — each winning one game. But their paths to stardom have been very different.

Goff was the No. 1 overall pick in 2016 and made a Super Bowl appearance with the Rams in 2018 before being traded to Detroit in 2021. Many saw the trade as a demotion, but Goff has since rebuilt his reputation as a dependable, smart, and increasingly dangerous quarterback.

Herbert, drafted in 2020, has been a statistical machine for the Chargers but has yet to make a deep playoff run, raising questions about his ability to lead a team under pressure.

Now, as both teams prepare to make a serious title run in 2025, their matchup is about more than just stats — it’s about legacy.

Goff’s Burning Motivation

Goff’s comments about Herbert were part of a broader conversation about his personal growth and Detroit’s rise from league bottom-feeders to championship contenders.

“I’ve had to prove myself all over again,” Goff said. “People said I was done after L.A. But I’ve worked too hard to let my story end without a ring.”

That determination has clearly resonated with the Lions’ fan base and locker room. Goff’s steady leadership guided the team to a 13-4 season and their first NFC Championship Game appearance in decades last year. Despite a heartbreaking loss to the Eagles, Goff believes the Lions are just getting started.

“That loss hurt — no doubt. But we’re not afraid of the spotlight anymore. We belong here.”

Locker Room Response

Teammates are rallying around Goff’s confidence. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson said the quarterback’s bold tone is exactly what the team needs.

“Jared’s not flashy, but when he speaks like that — we listen. He’s locked in. We all are.”

Running back Jahmyr Gibbs also weighed in:

“You can feel it this year — the hunger. Goff wants it bad, and he’s bringing that energy to all of us.”

Coach Dan Campbell, who has been instrumental in rebuilding the franchise’s culture, fully supports Goff stepping into a more vocal role.

“He’s earned it. He’s been in the trenches with us, and he knows what it takes. If he says this is the year — then let’s ride.”

Chargers Stay Quiet — For Now

While Goff’s comments have ignited conversation, the Chargers organization has chosen to take the high road — at least publicly. Herbert declined to directly address the “rivalry” talk, only stating:

“We’re focused on our preparation. Detroit’s a great team. We’ll be ready.”

However, sources close to the Chargers locker room say Herbert is well aware of Goff’s comments and is using them as fuel for the upcoming clash in Week 5.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 NFL season gets underway, the Lions and Chargers are both expected to be serious contenders. But more than that, this growing narrative between Goff and Herbert — two quarterbacks with vastly different journeys but the same burning ambition — may be one of the most compelling storylines of the year.

For Jared Goff, this is more than just a game. It’s redemption. It’s legacy. And it’s a message — to Herbert, to the Chargers, and to the rest of the league — that the Detroit Lions are coming for it all.

“This is our time,” Goff said to close out the interview.
“And I’m ready to lead us there.”