The Detroit Lions’ offense achieved historic success in 2024, under the leadership of coordinator Ben Johnson. The unit led the league in scoring and ranked second in total yards. Johnson has since left to become the head coach of the Chicago Bears, meaning the Lions will have new leadership under head coach Dan Campbell for the upcoming season.
While the offense was exceptional in 2024, turnovers during the Divisional Round led to an early postseason exit. Despite this, with much of the talent returning for 2025, high expectations will remain for the group.
Below are the grades for each position group based on their 2024 performance.
Quarterback: A-
Jared Goff’s season will likely be remembered for its disappointing finish, but he had a stellar regular season and was an MVP finalist. He set a career-high in passing touchdowns and recorded his most passing yards in a season since joining the Lions.
His four-turnover performance in the season-ending loss was a letdown, but overall, his play was strong. Besides a five-interception game against Houston, Goff had an excellent regular season. He was named NFC Offensive Player of the Month in October and completed a personal-best 72% of his passes, including a flawless game against Seattle in Week 4, where he didn’t throw a single incompletion.
When in rhythm, Goff has proven he can compete with the best in the league. Detroit’s supporting cast of playmakers gives him the tools to make big plays, but the next challenge for him is proving he can lead the team to a championship. Goff’s four-year extension kicks in for 2025, bringing added pressure as he faces expectations with Johnson now coaching the Bears.
Running Backs: A
David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, in their second year together, continued to show strong growth. Gibbs surpassed 1,000 rushing yards, and Montgomery was on track for similar numbers before a knee injury ended his regular season early.
Montgomery, who signed a two-year extension, complements the Lions’ scheme with his hard-running style, but it was Gibbs who shone late in the season. The dynamic playmaker, drafted 12th overall in 2023, surpassed 1,400 rushing yards and solidified his place as one of the league’s top young talents.
With Montgomery sidelined, Gibbs took over and had a stellar December/January, earning NFC Offensive Player of the Month honors.
Wide Receivers: A-
Amon-Ra St. Brown had another All-Pro season, despite a slight dip in his overall numbers. He remained Goff’s top target and came through with key plays, including a touchdown pass and two hook-and-ladder touchdowns. His relentless work ethic suggests continued excellence ahead.
Jameson Williams emerged in his third NFL season, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards and seven touchdowns despite a two-game suspension. His postseason performance, highlighted by a 61-yard touchdown, further showcased his potential.
Tim Patrick, returning from injury, proved to be a valuable addition to the offense, fitting seamlessly into the scheme. Kalif Raymond contributed mostly on special teams but added some receiving yards and two touchdowns. Veteran Allen Robinson provided leadership and made crucial plays, including a big catch against San Francisco.
Sam LaPorta, after a standout rookie season, experienced a quieter start to 2024, potentially due to a training camp injury. However, he bounced back late in the year with at least seven targets in each of the last six games, including three touchdowns.
Brock Wright remained a reliable secondary option, primarily as a blocker, while Shane Zylstra took on tight end duties in place of Parker Hesse after a midseason transition.
Offensive Line: B+
Penei Sewell led the offensive line and earned All-Pro honors for the second consecutive year. The group remained largely healthy throughout the season, although there were some minor injuries.
Sewell and Frank Ragnow stood out as the top performers, and Kevin Zeitler proved to be an excellent free-agent signing. Graham Glasgow’s performance was inconsistent after a strong 2023, raising concerns about his future.
Taylor Decker struggled with injuries and inefficiencies early in the season but rebounded as the year progressed. The line is talented, but its aging core could present challenges in the near future.
Detroit also got a glimpse of sixth-round pick Christian Mahogany, who made two starts late in the season. Mahogany impressed in his limited opportunities, potentially positioning him for a starting role next year.
