As the Detroit Lions prepare for the upcoming NFL season, there’s a growing push for the team to bolster its offensive weapons for quarterback Jared Goff.
Detroit already struck gold at tight end with Sam LaPorta, who emerged as a record-setting playmaker in his rookie year and maintained his high-level production through 2024. While the Lions have built some depth at the position, none of the current backups have delivered the same level of impact in the passing game as LaPorta. However, that might change soon.
Veteran Tight End Emerges as Potential Target
According to Jeff Risdon from USA Today’s Lions Wire, Detroit could look to the free agent market for help. One player that stands out is former Los Angeles Rams tight end Gerald Everett, a familiar face for Goff. Risdon pointed out that Everett and Goff had solid chemistry during their time together with the Rams.
“Back when they were both with the Rams, Everett and Goff worked well together,” Risdon wrote. While Everett isn’t particularly known for his run-blocking ability, he remains an effective short-route option who can pick up yards after initial contact.
Given that Detroit already has tight ends and offensive linemen capable of handling most of the blocking duties, Everett could step in as a reliable red-zone weapon without shouldering too many responsibilities elsewhere.
Since entering the NFL in 2017, Everett has accumulated 2,869 receiving yards and scored 19 touchdowns. His production dipped last season with the Chicago Bears, where he was limited to just eight catches for 36 yards.
More Depth Needed at Tight End
Although Detroit’s current group of receivers ranks among the NFL’s strongest, additional depth at tight end would strengthen the offense. LaPorta led the group with 60 catches for 726 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Meanwhile, the other tight ends on the roster combined for only 14 catches, 122 yards, and two scores.
LaPorta is already looking to expand his role within the offense under new offensive coordinator Johnny Morton. Speaking with team reporter Tim Twentyman, LaPorta explained that he’s been working to improve his mental approach by seeing the game through Goff’s eyes.
“I’ve been trying to view the offense from the quarterback’s perspective—understanding what Jared needs and not just focusing on my own assignment,” LaPorta said. He also mentioned that learning the new coordinator’s system will take some adjustment.
“There might be new ways that Coach Morton wants to get me involved, and there may be areas where we shift focus,” LaPorta added. “It’s all about building that connection and understanding what each of us requires moving forward.”
With potential changes coming to the offensive scheme and a desire to support Goff with familiar, proven targets, Detroit may look to add a player like Everett before training camp kicks off.
