DETROIT, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 19: Jared Goff #16 of the Detroit Lions looks on before a game against the Arizona Cardinals at Ford Field on December 19, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
It seemed to be going that way, but Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell basically confirmed Jared Goff will not play Sunday against the Falcons.
Even as a vaccinated player and with the NFL changing COVID protocols for said players, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff was up against the clock to get cleared to play on Sunday. On Friday morning, head coach Dan Campbell confirmed Goff is “highly unlikely” to play against the Atlanta Falcons. He did not clear virus protocols on Friday morning.
Goff reported symptoms and was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list on Monday, the day after the Lions’ shocking 30-12 win over the Arizona Cardinals. He has legit been one of the highest-rated quarterbacks in the league over the last month, and amid his struggles early in the season it became clear he would only be replaced if he was injured.
Tim Boyle in line to make second start for Jared Goff this season
When Goff missed Week 11 with an oblique injury, Tim Boyle made his first NFL start against the Cleveland Browns. He had only recently returned to practice after thumb surgery, and as easily expected he struggled (15-for-23 for 77 yards, two interceptions).
On Thursday, Campbell cited more practice time and being further removed from the injury as reasons to have faith in Boyle. Campbell also suggested the Lions’ offense, which has scored 29 or more points in two of the last three games, would not be hindered if Boyle had to start.
On Wednesday, Boyle’s practice reps and media session were confirmation he was working as the starter in a scenario Goff couldn’t play. The door briefly seemed open for David Blough to be an option to start if Goff couldn’t get cleared, but it now looks like he’ll be the backup to Boyle on Sunday against Atlanta.