Sam LaPorta: 'I’m Living My Dream'
"Underwhelming."
Lions rookie tight end Sam LaPorta has been referred to as such before; in fact, during his junior year at Iowa.
However, he certainly wasn’t that in front of various media members on Day 2 of rookie minicamp practice. The former Hawkeyes tight end showcased fluid route-running ability and solid hands, and was perhaps the most impressive Detroit rookie.
“You know, somebody called me underwhelming one time, and I was like, ‘Alright,’” LaPorta told reporters after Day 2 of minicamp practice. “You know, I think I can play with the best of ‘em. But, you know, if you’re going to, if I don’t impress you or whatever, it doesn’t really matter. My play will do the talking hopefully.”
LaPorta, a second-round pick (No. 34 overall) of the Lions in the 2023 NFL Draft, certainly let his play do the talking during his time at Iowa.
In four years and 46 total games with the Hawkeyes, the 6-foot-4, 242-pounder recorded 153 receptions for 1,786 yards and five touchdowns. Additionally, according to Pro Football Focus, during the 2021 season, he led all Big Ten tight ends in receptions (53), yards (670), yards after catch (299), yards after contact (206) and catches of 15-or-more yards (18).
Now, he’s set to join a Detroit offense that was ultra productive a season ago. In fact, it finished fifth in points (26.6/game) and fourth in total yards (6,460), despite not having a true No. 1 tight end for the second half of the year.
Fellow Iowa product T.J. Hockenson, a Pro Bowler with the Lions in 2020, was dealt to the Minnesota Vikings at last year’s NFL trade deadline. After Hockenson was traded, Detroit relied upon a trio of players for its production at tight end: James Mitchell, Brock Wright and Shane Zylstra.
Mitchell, Wright and Zylstra collectively helped fill the void left by Hockenson. However, none of them quite possess the upside offered by LaPorta. He’ll walk into Detroit with a strong chance to be the team’s starting tight end right away.
He’s excited for the opportunity that lies ahead with the Lions.
“It’s really cool. I’m a little naive, as all rookies are. I mean, the hair on the back of my neck stood up, I got chills when I heard we were going to Arrowhead to open up the season (against the Chiefs),” LaPorta expressed. “You know, I’m living my dream of playing ball. And you know, I never really thought I’d be in this situation, but here I am.”
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