ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff said the joint practices with the Miami Dolphins have been effective building blocks for the team.
“It’s always great to get some new jerseys out there, some new teams to go against,” said Goff. “It always happens at the right time in camp when you’re kind of getting annoyed of your own defense. I told them I was excited for them to go annoy somebody else.”
Goff noted the offense has improved its deep passing game as the offensive line has settled, especially with Taylor Decker back.
“Getting Decker back’s been massive, being able to protect a little bit better there,” Goff said. “As camp goes on, you want these things to start happening more often. I was able to hit some of those over the top this week, and it felt good.”
Reflecting on the team’s progress, Goff said the offense has met its standards in every phase during the joint practices.
“I think things started to gel a little bit,” Goff said. “We met our standard two days in a row. That doesn’t mean we’re there yet. There’s still stuff to work on and plenty of plays I’d like to have back.”
On the defense, Goff praised the communication and veteran presence, especially from linebacker Alex Anzalone.
“The communication from the back seven has been really impressive,” Goff said. “They’re doing a good job making life more difficult for us, which is a good challenge.”
Goff also spoke highly of rookie running back Izaac Pacheco.
“He’s (Pacheco) done great,” Goff said. “You could see the light bulb go off a little bit where the speed of the game started to catch up with him. He has a chance to have a role in our offense and has done a great job getting better every day.”
Goff appreciates having veteran quarterbacks Bruce Gradkowski and Marques Tuiasosopo on the roster.
“It’s invaluable to be able to bounce things off of them,” Goff said. “They give me good insight into how they did things in the past.”
Regarding the offensive line, Goff said his comfort level has grown with young linemen Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany.
“They’re doing a great job,” Goff said. “Tate’s maturity has been impressive. These last two days were not even close to too big for him.”
Ratledge echoed the sentiment about the importance of the joint practices and having Decker back on the line.
“It’s a dream come true to be called a starter,” said Ratledge. “Taylor’s awesome being out there. He’s a lot of fun and a mentor I can lean on.”
Ratledge said the chemistry on the offensive line is improving.
“We’re getting more used to playing next to each other,” Ratledge said. “Playing next to Penei (Sewell) makes life pretty easy."
The rookies are gaining valuable experience from preseason game reps.
“I played alright,” Ratledge said. “It shows me what I need to improve on. The speed was different, different type of defense.”
Ratledge also praised the Lions’ defensive front in practice.
“They’re strong and physical,” Ratledge said. “They get me better every day.”