Have Lions constructed NFL's most stacked offense?

The Detroit Lions had a historic season in 2023.

Following doldrums-filled decades, the Lions roared to their first-ever NFC North title en route to their initial NFC Championship Game appearance since 1991.

A considerable part of that success was attributed to a Detroit offense that delivered in every skill position, which raises the question, have the Lions assembled the most formidable offense in the NFL?

Don’t believe it? According to NFL Research, head coach Dan Campbell’s Lions team boasts the most statistically successful skill players.

In 2023, the Lions became only the second team in NFL history to see four players produce 10-plus scrimmage touchdowns in a single season, according to NFL Research. The feat, which matched the 2013 Denver Broncos, was accomplished by running backs David Montgomery (13 scrimmage touchdowns) and Jahmyr Gibbs (11), wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (10) and tight end Sam LaPorta (10).

St. Brown (1,539 yards), Gibbs (1,261), and Montgomery (1,132) were three players who each accumulated over 1,000 scrimmage yards and more than 10 TDs. The Lions were the only NFL team to boast three players achieving this feat in a single season, a record that is tied for the highest in the history of the league, according to NFL Research.

St. Brown has emerged as one of the top receivers in the NFL, while Montgomery has had the best season of his career. Additionally, Gibbs and LaPorta quickly became successful after showcasing their dynamic abilities in their rookie seasons.

If Jameson Williams realizes his first-round potential, Detroit could have another game-changing option at Jared Goff and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s disposal.

The Lions’ offense has consistently ranked in the top five for two consecutive seasons, indicating that their best performances may still be ahead.

In 2023, Detroit made history by winning its first-ever NFC North title and followed it up with a run to the NFC title game. The club secured two playoff wins during this campaign, which doubled their total postseason wins since 1957.

Much of that Motown magic was attributed to Detroit’s energetic offense.

Is it possible for these modern-era Lions to continue their successful streak? The Detroit defense has been the focus of offseason improvement efforts, but the team’s resurgence is largely due to its offense. This must not only be maintained, but potentially even improved.

Goff, last season, memorably opined that the Lions have plenty of standouts on their squad, they just don’t get the attention. Now, it’s getting more difficult to ignore the Lions.

In the Motor City, horsepower is highly valued, and the Lions possess a significant amount of it in their offense. Whether the Lions will be fleeting sensations or continue to dominate the NFC North and potentially reach their first Super Bowl could largely be determined by Goff and his team’s ability to maintain their aggressive approach in 2024.