Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta expressed strong optimism about the team’s offensive future under new offensive coordinator John Morton as they prepare for the 2023 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL season. With Morton stepping in following the departure of Ben Johnson, who became the Chicago Bears’ head coach, LaPorta praises Morton’s intellect and experience as key to maintaining the Lions’ offensive momentum.
As the Lions move forward, Morton’s extensive background—having served as offensive coordinator for the New York Jets and passing game coordinator with the Denver Broncos—offers hope that he can continue driving the team’s productive offense. LaPorta emphasized the importance of Morton establishing himself with the fan base while delivering solid play-calling.
Leadership Change Brings New Offensive Philosophy and Challenges
Ben Johnson’s exit marked a pivotal shift for Detroit’s offense, which was among the league’s most effective in recent years. In a recent appearance on The Jim Rome Show, LaPorta reflected on the leadership transition and the challenges Morton faces. He shared,
Johnny Mo, pass game coordinator his entire life. Brilliant mind, I think he’s gonna call the offense great.
—Sam LaPorta, Tight End
This endorsement highlights LaPorta’s confidence in Morton’s strategic vision and ability to lead Detroit’s offense through this period of change. Maintaining the team’s success hinges on Morton’s capacity to implement his system while keeping the players engaged.
Maintaining Continuity in the Lions’ Running Game
Despite changes in the coaching lineup, the Lions retained important position coaches, including Hank Fraley, who was promoted to run game coordinator. LaPorta noted the value of sticking with familiar structures, saying,
Fortunately for me, we have the same run game system this year, the same verbiage, which, as you can imagine, is a lot,
—Sam LaPorta, Tight End
This stability ensures the running game will remain consistent, reducing adjustment periods and preserving the strengths that contributed to recent offensive success. LaPorta also pointed out the strong partnership between head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes as foundational to the team’s trajectory. He commented,
It goes hand in hand with the players that are out there, of course, winning the game,
—Sam LaPorta, Tight End
Building a Winning Culture Through Strong Management and Talent
The team’s roster, meticulously put together by Brad Holmes, reflects a combination of talent and cultural fit that supports Detroit’s competitive goals. LaPorta praised Holmes’s ability to identify players who align with the Lions’ ethos, stating,
People always say it’s a player’s game. Brad Holmes has been the best at finding guys in the league that fit the culture in Detroit and are damn good football players at the end of the day,
—Sam LaPorta, Tight End
This synergy between leadership and players is essential as the Lions aim to build on their momentum and compete effectively in the 2023 season. LaPorta’s enthusiasm about Morton’s role and the team’s overall strategy indicates strong belief in their potential for success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Sam LaPorta good?
A. LaPorta set a new record for rookie tight ends by catching 82 passes in a single NFL season. Overall, it was one of the best debut seasons for a tight end in league history. Lions fans were looking forward to seeing him perform even better in 2024, but that did not occur.
Q. Will Sam LaPorta be good?
A. In his first year in 2023, the Lions’ tight end made a big impression. However, his 2024 performance slightly declined with 724 yards and seven touchdowns.
Although his 2024 season wasn’t bad, we believe he has the potential for greater achievements. His incredible rookie year showed what he can truly do.