By Sunday 
When Amon-Ra St. Brown speaks, Lions fans listen. The Pro Bowl wideout and emotional spark plug of the Detroit offense doesn’t hand out hype lightly—but when he does, it’s worth paying attention.
“He’s Gonna Have a Big Year”
In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated’s John Maakaron, St. Brown singled out a teammate he believes is primed for a big leap in 2025: tight end Sam LaPorta.
“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’s high praise from someone who’s shared the field with LaPorta through some of the most explosive stretches of Detroit’s 2024 campaign.
A Quiet Sophomore Year, But the Ceiling’s Still High
LaPorta was a revelation as a rookie—snagging first downs, breaking tackles, and becoming a reliable safety valve for Jared Goff. But in 2025, his production dipped. With Jameson Williams flashing more deep-threat potential and Jahmyr Gibbs emerging as a dual-threat back, LaPorta’s targets naturally took a hit.
Still, the talent hasn’t gone anywhere—and according to St. Brown, neither has the work ethic. The star wideout’s confidence suggests that LaPorta might not just bounce back this season—he might break out all over again.
A Rebooted Lions Offense
This is a big season for Detroit. After their heartbreaking playoff loss to Washington and the departure of both coordinators, the Lions are resetting on the fly. New faces in the coaching room and some key roster losses mean the pressure is on to maintain the momentum built over the past two years.
Thankfully, players like St. Brown, Williams, Gibbs, and yes—LaPorta—are still there to carry the torch. If the third-year tight end can level up again, it adds yet another dimension to an already stacked offense.
So when St. Brown says he’s excited about Sam LaPorta? That’s a signal—maybe even a warning—for the rest of the NFC.
The Lions are reloaded. And they’re not done yet.