By Moses Joshua 
Detroit Looks to Reunite Jared Goff With Familiar Playmaker Amid Tight End Depth Questions
As the Detroit Lions gear up for another promising season with Super Bowl ambitions, there’s one area of the offense that could still use fine-tuning: the tight end room behind rising star Sam LaPorta. Though LaPorta has been a revelation, Detroit may be wise to give quarterback Jared Goff another experienced option—someone who knows him well and brings proven production.
A Familiar Face with a Proven Track Record
NFL veteran Gerald Everett, a former second-round pick and longtime collaborator with Goff during their days with the Los Angeles Rams, has emerged as a potential target. According to Jeff Risdon of USA Today’s Lions Wire, Everett’s experience and chemistry with Goff could make him a valuable late addition.
“Once upon a time, Everett and Lions QB Jared Goff had a nice connection during their Rams days,” Risdon noted. “Everett doesn’t offer much in the way of run blocking, but he’s still a capable chip-and-release receiver who can break the initial tackle.”
That kind of familiarity could come in handy, especially under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Johnny Morton, who is expected to implement some structural changes to the passing attack.
LaPorta Leads the Way, But Needs Backup
Sam LaPorta has been everything the Lions hoped for and more since entering the league. After a historic rookie campaign, he continued his rise in 2024, hauling in 60 catches for 726 yards and seven touchdowns. But behind him? Production thins out quickly. The Lions’ other tight ends combined for just 14 receptions and two scores last year.
LaPorta understands his role is expanding—not just as a playmaker but as a cerebral part of the offense. This offseason, he’s focused on mental preparation and improving his synergy with Goff.
“Start to see the game from the quarterback’s perspective,” LaPorta told team insider Tim Twentyman. “What Jared needs exactly and maybe not just knowing what I’m doing on the field but what other people are doing as well.”
With Morton now calling plays, LaPorta anticipates both evolution and adaptation in how he’s used:
“There might be different ways that Johnny (Morton) wants to get me the ball. Maybe other areas we might step away from,” he said. “I think there’s a relationship that needs to be built there as well, and we’ll learn what each other needs.”
Everett Could Be the Missing Piece
At 30 years old, Gerald Everett has compiled 2,869 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns since entering the league in 2017. While last season with the Bears was underwhelming—just 8 catches for 36 yards—his previous years showcased steady production and clutch performances, particularly in the red zone.
Unlike LaPorta, Everett wouldn’t be asked to carry the load or contribute heavily in run-blocking. Instead, he could function as a situational weapon—especially on third downs or inside the 20—helping take pressure off LaPorta while offering Goff a trusted safety valve.
Final Thoughts: A Smart, Low-Risk Addition
Adding Everett wouldn’t require a major investment, but the return could be significant. In a high-powered offense where every target counts and red-zone efficiency could mean the difference between a deep playoff run and a first-round exit, reuniting Goff with a reliable, familiar face might just be the subtle move that pushes Detroit over the top.
As the Lions continue refining their roster ahead of training camp, the door remains open for one more veteran to join the pride—and rekindle some old Rams magic in Motown.