Leadership on Display as Lions Reset for 2025
After a thrilling 2024 campaign that ended in heartbreak, the Detroit Lions enter 2025 with both optimism and unfinished business. Despite boasting one of the league’s most complete rosters last year and spending most of the season as the NFC’s top team, Detroit’s Super Bowl dreams were derailed by a stunning playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.
With both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn departing in the offseason — along with key veterans on both sides of the ball — the Lions are in a retooling phase. But amid the change, one thing remains constant: Amon-Ra St. Brown’s voice carries weight in the locker room. And recently, the All-Pro wide receiver made it clear which teammate he believes is ready to step into the spotlight.
St. Brown on LaPorta: “He’s Gonna Have a Big Year”
While speaking with Sports Illustrated’s John Maakaron, St. Brown didn’t hesitate when asked who’s stood out this offseason.
“A guy that I’m excited for is Sam LaPorta,” St. Brown said. “Not taking anything away from what he did last year, he’s a baller, but I can tell this year, he’s making plays out there every day. He’s gonna have a big year.”
That kind of praise from Detroit’s offensive cornerstone is no small endorsement. LaPorta, who made an immediate splash as a rookie in 2023, was expected to take another leap in 2024. But with the emergence of wideout Jameson Williams and dual-threat running back Jahmyr Gibbs, the tight end’s role became more specialized, and his numbers didn’t pop the way many predicted.
Still, LaPorta proved he belongs — and now, according to St. Brown, he’s raising his game to another level.
A Revamped Offense with LaPorta at Its Heart?
In 2025, Detroit’s offense won’t just be about star receivers and explosive runs. With coordinator changes and increased defensive attention on St. Brown and Williams, LaPorta is in position to thrive in mismatches and red zone opportunities. His rapport with quarterback Jared Goff, coupled with his athleticism and route-running savvy, could make him a matchup nightmare.
The Lions know they can’t afford a regression, not in a top-heavy NFC where contenders like the Eagles, 49ers, and Cowboys are all reloading. That’s why internal growth — from players like LaPorta — might be the biggest key to a Super Bowl push.
Looking Ahead: A Balanced Attack Built for January
Detroit has all the pieces on offense, from a punishing ground game to one of the best receiver duos in the NFL. But LaPorta could be the X-factor that ties it all together. And if Amon-Ra St. Brown’s instincts are as sharp as his hands, Lions fans should be watching No. 87 very closely this fall.
Because if LaPorta truly is “making plays every day,” as St. Brown says, the rest of the league may want to take notice — and take cover.