Jared Goff Says Rams Are 'A Lot Closer Than People Think'

Jared Goff believes the Los Angeles Rams could be a realistic contender earlier than anyone is expecting.

"I think we're a lot closer to where we want to be than people may think," the quarterback said in a press conference Monday, via Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk. "We got the players, we got the talent, we got all the pieces we need. It’s just about putting it together now."

The Rams finished 4-12 last season, their first in Los Angeles, and haven't made the playoffs since 2004.

Although the defense has showed plenty of the talent described, finishing ninth in the NFL in yards allowed last year thanks in large part to All-Pro tackle Aaron Donald, Goff will have to improve himself if he wants to turn the team's fortunes around. 

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 draft became the starter in the second half of the season and led the team to a 0-7 record. He threw only five touchdowns with seven interceptions, and his quarterback rating of 63.6 ranked 56th among NFL passers.

Per Pro Football Reference, his total QBR of 22.2 was just over half of previous starter Case Keenum (43.4)

However, there is a new head coach in 31-year-old Sean McVay, who hopes he can resurrect Goff's career and bring about more success for the struggling franchise.

 

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