ESPN Analyst Warns Fantasy Managers Not to Assume Lions’ Offensive Hierarchy

Last season, the Lions boasted an impressive array of fantasy contributors: Goff was a top-10 quarterback, both Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery finished as top-20 running backs, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams cracked the top 25 among wide receivers (depending on scoring format), and tight end Sam LaPorta established himself as a top-10 option at his position. It’s clear this offense can support multiple fantasy stars—but figuring out who will emerge as the most consistent contributors in 2025 may not be straightforward.

Fantasy managers often lean heavily on last year’s stats to project the pecking order for the upcoming season, but ESPN fantasy analyst Eric Karabell advises against doing so blindly when it comes to Detroit. In a recent article listing 19 bold predictions for the upcoming fantasy campaign, Karabell issued a particularly noteworthy take regarding the Lions’ receiving hierarchy: “Don’t be surprised if Sam LaPorta outscores Jameson Williams.”

Karabell points out that although LaPorta dealt with ankle and hamstring injuries early in his second year and had to compete for targets with Williams, he came on strong in the second half of the season. From Week 10 onward, LaPorta saw six or more targets in every game, reasserting his reliability, especially in the red zone. Meanwhile, Williams, known for his explosive deep-threat capabilities, averaged an eye-catching 17.3 yards per reception—nearly double LaPorta’s—but still lacked the consistent volume and scoring opportunities LaPorta enjoyed.

Ultimately, fantasy managers should be cautious about penciling in Williams as the Lions’ clear No. 2 option behind Amon-Ra St. Brown. The offense may remain fruitful, but how those fantasy points are distributed could surprise those who assume roles based strictly on potential or big-play ability.