Sam LaPorta Could Be the Next Lion to Cash In

The Detroit Lions have made it clear that keeping their young core together is a top priority, and according to recent comments from Adam Schefter, tight end Sam LaPorta could be the next player in line for a major extension. After already locking up linebacker Jack Campbell, Detroit appears focused on rewarding the stars from its incredible 2023 draft class before prices continue to rise around the league. LaPorta has already established himself as one of the best young tight ends in football despite entering just his fourth NFL season.

Since arriving in Detroit as a second-round pick out of Iowa, he has become one of Jared Goff’s most reliable weapons and a massive part of the Lions offense during the Lions’ rise into NFC contenders. His rookie season was historic. LaPorta finished with 86 receptions, 889 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns while setting an NFL rookie record for catches by a tight end.

He immediately looked like a mismatch nightmare because of his route running, toughness after the catch, and ability to create separation against linebackers and safeties. He followed that up with another productive season in 2024 before battling injuries during the 2025 campaign. Even while dealing with physical setbacks, LaPorta still remained one of Detroit’s most dangerous offensive weapons whenever healthy.

Through nine games in 2025, he had already posted 40 receptions for 489 yards and three touchdowns before a serious back injury shut him down for the remainder of the season. The biggest storyline surrounding LaPorta this offseason has been the recovery from that back surgery. According to reports from the Lions organization, the injury stemmed from a herniated disc that worsened over time before surgery ultimately became necessary.