The Detroit Lions’ offense is predicted to do exceptionally well entering the 2024 season. Quarterback Jared Goff has been surrounded by a strong offensive line and youthful weapons in important areas, including tight end Sam LaPorta.
Following a record-breaking rookie season, the former second-round pick is looking to build on his success in his first NFL season in Detroit. The skilled tight end appeared on SiriusXM NFL Radio Wednesday to discuss how Ben Johnson’s offense can still improve, despite its recent success in moving the ball and scoring points.
“This year, our head coach has emphasized that it requires more. We had a terrific stepping stone last year, and we’re hoping to raise it a little higher this year. Can we have fewer turnovers? Can we run the ball more efficiently? More effective? Can we get more of those downfield shots? “The turnovers,” explained LaPorta. “Of course, we had a great year last year, we’re proud of what we did but it’s 2024 and we’re trying to build a little bit more on this offense and see what we can do this year.”
During his rookie season, the former Iowa Hawkeyes tight end faced a variety of coverages from opposing defenses. “I believe early on, I saw a range of coverages and such. Ben Johnson does an excellent job of designing our attack to put players in circumstances and locations that may not be familiar to the defense,” LaPorta explained. “It’s amazing that I have a quarterback that can deliver the ball on time and accurately, and there are guys other than me like Amon-Ra (St. Brown), Jamo (Jameson Williams), Kalif (Raymond), and Brock (Wright). Those guys are also helping me get open because they divert attention away from me down the field.”
