The Detroit Lions have meticulously invested in strengthening their tight end cadre over the years.
After a series of less successful endeavors and the departure of T.J. Hockenson, the franchise seems to have unearthed a long-term gem in second-year Iowa alumnus Sam LaPorta.
In his rookie season of 2023, LaPorta shattered the NFL record for receptions by a rookie tight end, swiftly catapulting himself into the elite echelon of players at his position.
LaPorta has garnered significant acclaim within league circles, earning accolades from top-tier tight ends like Travis Kelce and George Kittle. This praise was echoed in a recent ESPN article by Jeremy Fowler, where coaches and executives ranked the premier tight ends in the league.
Entering only his sophomore NFL season, LaPorta was ranked fourth, trailing only Kelce, Kittle, and Baltimore’s Mark Andrews.
Fowler noted, “The Lions have invested three first-round picks on the tight end position since 2009: Brandon Pettigrew, Eric Ebron, and T.J. Hockenson. Yet, it’s a second-round pick who’s set to become the franchise’s finest selection at this position.”
According to ESPN, LaPorta’s rankings ranged from third to seventh. His rookie year was marked by exceptional receiving prowess, an unyielding work ethic, and contributions as a run-blocker.
The Iowa product demonstrated advanced skills, surpassing typical rookie expectations in numerous aspects. Now, he faces the challenge of elevating his performance in his sophomore NFL season.
Fowler further elaborated, “LaPorta burst onto the scene with 86 receptions — the highest ever for a rookie tight end — amassing 889 yards and 10 touchdowns. ‘He’s phenomenal,’ a veteran NFC scout remarked. ‘Everything seems effortless and innate to him. Excellent footwork. Dominant in the red zone. Puts in maximum effort on every play, whether blocking or running routes. Plays with impeccable technique, consistently. Surprisingly strong for his size and highly instinctive.’
As the training camp approaches, LaPorta has been in California, training with quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown under the guidance of quarterback coach Adam Deduaux of 3DQB.
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