Quarterback Matthew Stafford, at the ripe old age of 23, sparkled as an offensive leader during the offseason workouts last week and the other session in May.

With his shoulder healthy, he seemed to make it through the vigorous workouts without a problem.

Rookies Titus Young, the wide receiver, and Mikel Leshoure, the big running back, won’t have the luxury of OTAs and minicamps, so Stafford is trying to give them a jumpstart before they reach training camp.

He remembers how important the offseason program was to him after he was drafted first overall in 2009.

“It was huge, especially for a quarterback. You almost have to have it. These are some guys at some positions that especially a running back has traditionally done well early in their career. And we can put them in situations for them to succeed,’’ Stafford said. “It’s not every down they have to be counted on to be the man.’’

Stafford has been a leader from the get-go. It’s a role that fits him well.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)