With preseason football just a few weeks away, it’s time to take a good look at where the Detroit Lions’ offense stands heading into what could be another big year.
There are a lot of familiar faces returning — and a few new wrinkles to sort out. Let’s break it down.
Quarterback
There’s zero drama under center. Jared Goff is the unquestioned QB1 and is coming off a massive 2024 season. He threw for over 4,600 yards and 37 touchdowns while completing more than 72% of his passes. He even pulled off a perfect game — 18 for 18 with two passing TDs and a receiving TD against Seattle. Not bad.
Behind him, Hendon Hooker is looking to lock up the backup job after basically redshirting as a rookie while recovering from an ACL injury. But don’t count out Kyle Allen, the veteran QB Detroit brought in this offseason. That competition is one to watch as camp kicks off.
Offensive Line
This group has been a strength, but changes are coming. Frank Ragnow retired and Kevin Zeitler is now in Tennessee, so the interior needs reworking. Graham Glasgow might move to center, with young guys like Christian Mahogany and Tate Ratledge stepping in at guard.
On the outside, the bookends remain intact. Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell return and should continue to anchor one of the league’s toughest O-lines.
Wide Receivers
Amon-Ra St. Brown is still the heartbeat of the receiver group, and he’s as clutch as they come. But the biggest leap last year came from Jameson Williams. After a rocky rookie season, he finally broke out — topping 1,000 yards and scoring eight total touchdowns.
Tim Patrick is penciled in as the WR3, and the Lions added rookies Isaac TeSlaa and Dominic Lovett, with TeSlaa already getting some hype from GM Brad Holmes.
Tight Ends
Sam LaPorta may not have had eye-popping numbers in 2024, but he was still a steady force — 726 yards and seven touchdowns. In an offense with so many mouths to feed, that’s impressive.
Behind him, Brock Wright returns as a dependable blocker with sneaky red zone value. Kenny Yeboah and Shane Zylstra round out a solid group.
Running Backs
Detroit’s backfield is still one of the most dangerous in the NFL. The “Sonic & Knuckles” combo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery was nearly unstoppable last year, combining for 2,200 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns.
Craig Reynolds and Sione Vaki provide depth, but make no mistake — this offense flows through the run game, even in long-yardage situations. It’s a big reason Detroit stays balanced and controls the tempo.
Big Picture
The talent is clearly there, but the Lions are adjusting to some changes on the coaching staff. Ben Johnson is now the Bears’ head coach, so John Morton steps in as OC. He’ll have to keep this well-oiled machine humming while adding his own wrinkles.
Bottom line: If the offensive line holds up and Goff stays healthy, Detroit’s offense should be one of the league’s best again. The pieces are in place. Now it’s about making it all click.
Lions’ Offense Locked and Loaded for 2025 — But Questions Remain Inside the Line
