By Blessing 
Lions’ Offensive Identity Remains Unshaken, Thanks to One Core Mindset
The Detroit Lions might have seen a major shake-up on offense this offseason, but according to tight end Sam LaPorta, the heart of the unit hasn’t changed one bit.
After the departure of former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, the Lions brought in John Morton to lead the charge. While Morton may be new to the role, he’s stepping into a locker room full of players who’ve grown together over the past few seasons. That continuity is critical — not just in skill, but in mindset.
LaPorta, now a vital piece of Detroit’s attack, says the team’s chemistry and unselfish attitude are what keep everything running smoothly, even amid change. Speaking on SiriusXM NFL Radio, he shared insight into what separates Detroit from so many other NFL teams:
“The skill position group, we really just want what’s best for the team. You ask any of the guys, that’s truly what they want,” LaPorta explained. “‘Hey Jameson (Williams), do you want to catch 10 balls this week or do you want to win?’ He’s going to say ‘Yeah, I’m going to want to win.’ ‘OK, then you might catch two balls. Might be a post ball for a touchdown for a big play, but it might only be two balls.’ ‘Great coach, I’m going to do it, I’m going to sacrifice it.'”
This team-first mentality stretches throughout the entire roster, even to stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown, who’s capable of putting up huge numbers any given week.
> “‘(Amon-Ra) St. Brown, are you going to dig out that nickel 25 times today and let David Montgomery tote the rock?’ ‘Of course, whatever you want,'” LaPorta recalled. “I’m serious. So it’s very uncharacteristic possibly of an NFL team because there’s a lot of high-profile athletes out there nowadays and they want the limelight, they want the spotlight. I think we handle that well here.”
According to LaPorta, this willingness to sacrifice personal stats for team success is why the Lions aren’t panicking over Ben Johnson’s departure. Their foundation hasn’t wavered — and that selfless approach remains the backbone of their offense.
So far, Morton has earned early praise. Despite being new, he hasn’t skipped a beat in training camp. LaPorta credited that smooth transition not only to Morton’s leadership but also to the team’s established culture.
And Morton isn’t just trying to replicate what Johnson did — he’s making sure each of his players feels valued and involved.
> “I think John Morton is doing a great job of distributing the ball, and there are certainly a lot of mouths to feed in terms of the skill position,” LaPorta said. “It’s like a mom with six, seven, eight kids. You gotta do your best. Get them all fed, get clothes on their backs. I think Johnny is doing a great job with that.”
Fortunately for Morton, he’s working with a stacked offense: a reliable quarterback, dynamic playmakers, and a group that truly buys in. If the offensive line holds steady, the Lions could be right back to their high-scoring ways in 2025.
It’s clear: talent matters. But in Detroit, mindset matters more — and it just might be the key to keeping this team elite.