Wide Receiver Scores Top Lightning Platinum Model
The Ford family has a controlling stake in its hometown NFL team, the Detroit Lions, and one of that team’s top rookies—Isaac TeSlaa—happens to have a last name that sounds a lot like a certain other automaker. That presented Ford with an obvious marketing opportunity, which the Blue Oval took advantage of by gifting TeSlaa an F-150 Lightning electric pickup.
“TeSlaa’s electric NFL debut has caught everyone’s attention—even Ford,” spokesperson Dan Barbossa said in an interview with the Detroit Free Press. “Now, Ford is making sure that despite his last name, TeSlaa’s wheels are undeniably Ford.”
Michigan Pride
Ford (via Instagram)
The truck is a 2025 F-150 Lightning Platinum, which currently starts at $87,190 (including a $2,195 destination charge) and is the top trim level in the Lightning lineup. Ford delivered it to TeSlaa over the weekend, and the wide receiver drove it to the Lions’ stadium—Ford Field—Sunday ahead of a game against the Cleveland Browns. A third-round draft pick and Michigan native, TeSlaa was happy to accept the free truck.
“Growing up, I always dreamed of playing at Ford Field and now that I’m in the league, it feels full circle,” TeSlaa said. “I’ve been a Ford fan my whole life, and I’m excited to be driving my new F-150 Lightning.”
This isn’t the first time Ford has handed out an F-150 to a pro athlete—last month it gave one to New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso in recognition of breaking the Mets’ home run record—but there’s extra significance this time. William Clay Ford Sr., Henry Ford’s grandson, bought the Lions in 1936 and the Ford family has maintained a controlling interest ever since. The team is currently run by Sheila Ford Hamp, the daughter of William Clay Ford Sr. and sister of current Ford executive chairman Bill Ford.
Lightning Needs A Jolt
Ford (via Instagram)
The Lightning was introduced as a 2022 model to much fanfare, but price increases soon after the start of production dampened consumer enthusiasm significantly. Sales have rebounded, though, with the Lightning seeing a 21% increase in August on the back of inflated demand ahead of the expiration of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
Lightning sales remain a drop in the bucket compared to gasoline and hybrid F-150 sales—even with that sales jolt, Ford moved just 3,217 of the trucks in August. And while it offers impressive capability in a familiar package, the Lightning isn’t getting any younger. Ford has postponed a replacement as it shifts focus to a smaller, more affordable electric truck.
