Lions Draft TE Sam LaPorta in Second Round
After an eventful first day of the 2023 Draft that saw Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes trade down from the No. 6 overall pick, the Lions are scheduled to have three more picks on Day 2.
With their first of potentially three selections on Day 2 (No. 34 overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft, the Lions have selected Iowa Hawkeyes tight end Sam LaPorta.
Recall, the team had previously targeted a tight end out of Iowa, with T.J. Hockenson having been selected in the first round of the 2019 draft.
Last season, LaPorta caught 58 passes for 657 yards and one touchdown. In his four-year career, he hauled in 153 passes for 1,786 yards and five scores.
According to NFL Draft Bible, LaPorta is "a cerebral player that will exploit holes in zone coverage. Knows when to slow his tempo and be patient against leverage. Adjusts his stem accordingly and looks back for the ball in a timely manner. Exceptional reaction time, catching the front of the ball and getting upfield. Physical after the catch, making defenders bring their weight with them. Better agility than you think, cutting against defenders positioning and into green grass. Best blocking comes against defensive backs and linebackers, showing the propensity to seal and create alleys. Plays long through the point of attack and will contort his body based on the play-side call."
Barring any trades, the Lions have picks No. 48 and No. 55 remaining on Day 2.
Picks made by Lions in 2023 NFL Draft:
- Round 1, Pick 12 -- Alabama Crimson Tide RB Jahmyr Gibbs
- Round 1, Pick 18 -- Iowa Hawkeyes LB Jack Campbell
Remaining picks
- Round 2, Pick No. 48
- Round 2, Pick No. 55 (From Minnesota)
- Round 5, Pick. 152
- Round 5, Pick 159 (From Atlanta)
- Round 5, Pick 168 (From Arizona)
- Round 6, Pick 183 (From Denver)
- Round 6, Pick 194
