As the NFL offseason unfolds, many veteran players reveal how they sharpen their skills and gain an edge. But Detroit Lions’ third-year tight end Sam LaPorta is taking a revolutionary approach—he’s trying to see the game through the eyes of his quarterback, Jared Goff.
LaPorta explains, “Start to see the game from the quarterback’s perspective. What Jared needs exactly and maybe not just knowing what I’m doing on the field but what other people are doing as well. Just seeing the big picture.”
This fresh mentality signals a level of maturity beyond his years and hints at an even more complete skill set as LaPorta heads into his third NFL season. His history backs this promise: LaPorta made NFL history as the first tight end ever to record at least 600 receiving yards and six touchdowns in each of his first two seasons. He’s also one of just four tight ends to eclipse 1,500 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns in his first two years. His 146 receptions over those two seasons stand as the highest for a tight end in league history.
Imagine a player who not only runs routes but anticipates defensive adjustments because he thinks like the quarterback himself. LaPorta’s new approach allows him to counter defenses the same way Goff envisions it. It’s a game-changer.
After years of offseason routines dominated by Combine prep and injury rehabs, LaPorta finally enjoyed a clean offseason free of surgery and rehab. “My body feels great,” he shared, “and I’m excited about this offense, especially with all the returning skill weapons and the strength upfront on the offensive line.”
He’s also proud of his improvements, especially in run blocking, an area he vows to sharpen further to remain one of the NFL’s most productive tight ends in 2025.
“Looking ahead to this year, just continue to polish things off in the run game and pass game,” LaPorta said. This offseason is particularly thrilling because Detroit is integrating a new offensive coordinator, John Morton, whose unique play designs could open fresh opportunities.
“There might be different ways that Johnny wants to get me the ball,” LaPorta revealed. “Maybe other areas we might step away from. I think there’s a relationship that needs to be built there as well, and we’ll learn what each other needs.”
Detroit’s offense is stacked with talent, meaning targets are precious and competition fierce. Yet LaPorta embraces that challenge, focusing on winning above all. Gaining insight into how Goff sees the field—and where he identifies open spaces—will only strengthen LaPorta’s role as a reliable safety valve, much like star slot receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown has become.
LaPorta finished the previous season on fire, hauling in 29 catches for 335 yards and two touchdowns over the final five games. His ability to sustain that momentum in 2025 hinges on this expanded offensive IQ and his commitment to understanding the bigger picture.
Detroit Lions fans have every reason to be excited. With LaPorta thinking like a quarterback, the Lions’ offensive dynamics could evolve dramatically, making them tougher to defend and more lethal in clutch moments.
