Sam LaPorta

Detroit Lions
Tight End #87
Detroit Lions
Tight End #87

Personal

Age 25
Birthdate January 12, 2001
Height 6'3"
Weight 245 lb

Draft

College Iowa
Year 2023
Pick Round: 2, Overall: 34
Team DET

Fantasy Value

Player News RotoBaller

Sam LaPorta: Sam LaPorta Could be "Bigger Priority" Under New Offensive Coordinator

According to The Athletic's Colton Pouncy, blending new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing's scheme with what the Detroit Lions already do on offense could make tight end Sam LaPorta an "even bigger priority in the passing game" in 2026. Former tight ends coach and current head coach Dan Campbell already clearly values the position. Before having season-ending back surgery, LaPorta was having a Pro Bowl season, catching 40 of his 49 targets for 489 yards and three touchdowns in nine starts. Petzing spent two seasons as the tight ends coach with the Cleveland Browns, and he prioritized the TE position in Arizona, with Trey McBride being one of the best players at his position in the NFL. Petzing isn't expected to run as much 12 personnel (two TEs) in Detroit, given the investments made at the position, but LaPorta could be in for a nice bounce-back year in 2026 if he's healthy.

Jan. 20, 2026 7:10 PM EST

Player Stats

YEAR TM GM Receiving Rushing
REC TGT % YDS TD YPC ATT YDS YPC TD FUM
2023 DET 16 81 113 71.7 860 9 10.6 1 4 4.0 0 0
2024 DET 16 53 76 69.7 663 7 12.5 0 0 0 0 0
2025 DET 9 40 49 81.6 489 3 12.2 0 0 0 0 0

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