Jared Goff and Carson Wentz went 1-2 in the 2016 NFL Draft, but they’ll get monster contracts in reverse order.
The Eagles announced a four-year extension for Wentz on Thursday worth $128 million, with at least $107 million guaranteed. The news immediately shifted attention to the Rams, who went to February's Super Bowl with Goff running the offense.
However, the team doesn’t feel the need to react just yet.
"They seem to be on a different timetable than we are,” Rams COO Kevin Demoff told the Los Angeles Times. “I don’t think we’re naive enough to say that Carson signing is not relevant. I just don’t think it changes the timing. The Eagles focused on what they thought was best for their organization. We’re going to focus on what’s best for our organization.”
As is commonplace with the quarterback position, the next guy to sign a deal usually cashes in more than the previous guy. And when it comes to Goff, 24, it’s hard to argue against him getting comparable, if not more, money than Wentz.
Wentz has excelled on the field, but he's suffered season-ending injuries in each of the last two seasons, while Goff has remained healthy and productive.
Since the arrival of Sean McVay two years ago, Goff has 60 touchdown passes, 19 interceptions and two Pro Bowl selections. He also has a 24-7 record as a starter after an 0-7 record under Jeff Fisher his rookie season.
So, is Goff’s success a product of McVay? Of course, he’s had some effect, but the Rams believe they have something in the former top overall pick.
“I think you’ve heard Sean and (general manager) Les (Snead) say Jared is an important piece of what we do, he’s an important piece of our future,” Demoff said. “I don’t think the timing and of when we sign Jared or begin those talks really is reflective of how we value him.”
Goff, if not extended this offseason, will earn a base salary of $4.3 million in 2019. After that, Los Angeles can exercise their fifth-year option and pay him roughly $22 million in 2020.