Picture this: the Detroit Lions, known for their resilience on the field, swapping their cleats for sneakers and hitting the basketball court. It’s akin to watching your favorite rock band perform an acoustic session without any sound enhancement—unexpected, yet oddly satisfying. Jared Goff, the quarterback, flung his helmet aside—equipment off, shoes secured, bantering like it’s Game 7 of the Finals. Taller athletes are creating screens, quicker athletes are driving toward the hoop, and maybe an offensive lineman is attempting a three-pointer as if he’s Steph Curry. Now, let’s come back to reality and consider what would happen if these athletes had picked a different sport? This might appear rather odd, but it turns out that several key Lions players participated in a different sport, basketball, when they were teenagers. Let’s put it like this: the video is honest. On Thursday, Goff utilized his official Instagram account to share a post that the Lions initially uploaded on their IG account.
At this point, things start to diverge. The Lions posted several photos of their players during their time on a basketball court in high school or college. Beginning with the QB himself, he appeared as if he were auditioning for High School Musical—that slender youth in the navy jersey of Marin Catholic High School.
When we discuss Goff, we recognize a quarterback with exceptional pocket awareness who began his football journey during his high school years at Marin Catholic. The guy wasn’t merely throwing the ball in high school—he was scorching defenses for enjoyment. Almost 7,700 yards, 93 touchdowns, and just 18 interceptions over three seasons at Marin Catholic? It’s no surprise that the player was the top overall selection in the 2016 NFL draft. The surprising part?
The Lions’ quarterback is also knowledgeable about basketball, given that the 30-year-old veteran QB played for Marin Catholic’s basketball team in the past. His history of accomplishments? Uh, just mention that he wasn’t really shining on the scoreboard. Over the course of 30 matches, he accumulated 72 points, averaging 2.4 per game. Averaged 40% in field goals, but what about from beyond the arc? Sure, let’s avoid that subject—0-for-1 isn’t impressive. It’s safe to conclude that choosing football was the best decision.
However, this isn’t the conclusion just yet. In addition to Goff, the Detroit squad also revealed some insights about their other important players. To begin with, the Lions’ RB Jahmyr “Sonic” Gibbs, cornerback Terrion Arnold, long snapper Hogan Hatten, and wide receiver Tim Patrick. Oh yes, we should also remember the linebacker Jack Campbell, tight end Sam LaPorta, and offensive tackle Taylor Decker from the team. Phew! Many basketball fans are part of Detroit’s prestigious lineup.
Speaking of elite, how can we overlook the Lions’ general manager, Brad Holmes, who recently earned the title of elite GM in the NFL?
Former general manager praises Jared Goff’s Lions’ GM
Over the last few years, the Lions have experienced success with GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell. There is certainly no question about that. A key reason for their success can be attributed to their shrewd draft choices. In 2023, the Lions selected TE LaPorta, who established a new NFL record for rookie tight ends with 70 catches. To add to that, the guy also earned the second-team All-Pro recognition.
Additionally, let’s remember when the Lions selected Jahmyr Gibbs with the 12th pick overall. The outcome? The RB nearly rushed for 1,000 yards during his first season. Moving to his sophomore year, the player gained 1,412 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. It’s not surprising that Holmes ranks among the elite GMs in the NFL, and ex-GM and present ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum wholeheartedly agrees.
“I believe that by adding three or four significant contributors over the course of three, four, or five years, you can achieve a cost-effective roster that ensures lasting success,” Tannenbaum stated during a conference on Wednesday. “I understand we often get fixated on when to choose and what they ought to be, but I believe that serves as a general guideline.” I would definitely rank Brad Holmes among the elite. I would contend with anyone, why not? The success of the Lions embodies the same spirit.
“I believe that by adding three or four significant contributors over the course of three, four, or five years, you can achieve a cost-effective roster that ensures lasting success,” Tannenbaum stated during a conference on Wednesday. “I understand we often get fixated on when to choose and what they ought to be, but I believe that serves as a general guideline.” I would definitely rank Brad Holmes among the elite. I would contend with anyone, why not? The success of the Lions embodies the same spirit.
Jump ahead to 2021. After nearly two decades with the Rams, Holmes was named the next GM of the Lions. Holmes is now starting his fifth year as the general manager. And indeed, he aims to secure the franchise’s inaugural Super Bowl championship.