The expression "were point man" refers to being the leader or the first in line during a particular mission or activity. Synonyms for this expression include the following: spearhead, trailblazer, front-runner, forefront, leader, avant-garde, vanguard, pioneer, groundbreaker, innovator, trendsetter, and forerunner. Each of these synonyms carries a slightly different connotation, but they all share the idea of being at the forefront or leading the way. Using these synonyms can add variation and interest to your writing while still conveying the same meaning as "were point man".