Always learning, Rams’ Goff seeks results
THOUSAND OAKS >> Although Jared Goff is uncomfortable being overly nosy when he’s around the NFL’s best quarterbacks, he kept a close eye on Drew Brees while they were together at the Pro Bowl in Orlando last year.
The most prolific passer in NFL history had no problem sharing aspects of his mental approach and game-day preparation with Goff, who was eager for knowledge a few weeks after taking a loss in his first career playoff game for the Los Angeles Rams.
“I wasn’t going to pry too deeply,” Goff said. “But I’d ask him a few questions as far as his warmup, and things he does throughout the week.”
While Goff admires Brees, Tom Brady and the other top QBs of this era, he is more interested in the mental mechanics of their game than in their arms, achievements or trophies. Goff wants to know how they prepare, and he seeks out tips on film study, game-morning arm exercises — anything he can put into his own evolving approach to the game.
“The thing about Jared is that he’s always looking to get better,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. “He doesn’t look at our record or his success and think he’s made it.”
Goff’s rough rookie season has vanished into history as he heads into his first NFC championship game with the Rams (14-3) against Brees and the Saints (14-3) on Sunday. While McVay clearly deserves credit for Goff’s swift evolution from a struggling No. 1 overall pick into an above-average NFL passer, Goff’s adaptability and eagerness to learn are just as important as his arm strength.
“I think I rely on a lot of the successes I’ve had, and understand that I didn’t do that on accident,” Goff said. “It’s part of my process, and part of what I do routinely.”
The same QB who went 0-7 as a rookie starter is now a two-time Pro Bowl selection at the helm of an elite NFL offense.
“You talk about a guy who stays evenkeeled,” Rams receiver Brandin Cooks said. “He operates with such a quieted mind, no matter what’s going on . ... ”