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Jon Gruden showers Jared Goff with high praise during visit to Lions camp

Originally posted on Side Lion Report | By Max DeMara | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 10:00 AM ET

The Detroit Lions have attracted some fun guests to training camp in the past, but perhaps none as interesting from a football standpoint as the one they welcomed on July 28.

Jon Gruden coached multiple different decades, winning many playoff games and the Super Bowl, making his perspective valuable on what he sees in Detroit. Gruden also knows new offensive coordinator John Morton well, helping to launch the career of the coach. That link brought the pair together in Allen Park.

According to the coach, the Lions are on a good path, and that's due in great part to quarterback Jared Goff. As an offensive coach first, Gruden had special interest in the position and always loves what he sees from Goff.

Specifically, Gruden believes that Goff brings to mind another famous California quarterback in Joe Montana, something he revealed to the media including Nolan Bianchi of the Detroit News.

"You know, I hate to throw comparisons out. But the number, the continuous movement that he plays with, he always reminded me of (Joe) Montana from the days I was with the (San Francisco) 49ers. My dad coached at Notre Dame with Joe. There's a similar personality, a similar playing style. He is one tough cat in the pocket. I love (Jared) Goff."

Indeed, Gruden not only got to watch Goff up close at practice, but was able to connect with him afterward. It seems Gruden delighted in getting the chance to be with Goff, as he posted a photo with him to his X account.

Love watching this guy work! pic.twitter.com/OwSysn2yKE
— Jon Gruden (@BarstoolGruden) July 28, 2025

A team is always only as good as its quarterback play, and Gruden would no doubt attest the Lions are in fantastic hands with Goff at the helm. If he can have another great season, it would go a long way toward easing some of the early question marks in 2025.

Jon Gruden explains why John Morton will be a great coordinator

With Goff, Gruden thinks the Lions have the perfect quarterback to run their offense. Morton will be in charge of directing those plays, and once again, Detroit is in good hands with their new boss calling the shots.

According to Gruden, who knew Morton when he was a low-level assistant and helped inspire him to climb the ladder, the greatest asset he brings will be his commitment to the team and his ability to work hard no matter what.