Despite missing significant time last season with a back injury, Detroit Lions star Sam LaPorta is still considered the No. 4 tight end in the NFL by executives, coaches, and scouts. Seriously, how often does a guy go down and still command that kind of respect? It just shows you the impact he's already made on this league.
The Rehab Grind and Unwavering Confidence
LaPorta underwent back surgery last November to fix a herniated disc, which ended his season prematurely. But here's the kicker: Lions head coach Dan Campbell said just last month that LaPorta is "trending the right way" for Detroit's 2026 training camp. You gotta love that kind of positive outlook! Even while he's busting his butt rehabbing, folks around the league aren't just hoping he gets back to form; ESPN's survey says they straight-up believe he'll resemble his pre-injury self. Evaluators didn't see any drop-off in his play, even with limited production last year. He only appeared in nine games, logging a career-low 40 catches for 489 yards and three touchdowns. But his game tape still showed explosive playmaking.Why the League Still Fears LaPorta
So, what makes these NFL big shots so sure about LaPorta? The numbers don't lie, even from his injury-shortened season. The dude averaged 2.25 yards after first contact per reception, topping the entire group of top-10 tight ends. And get this: his 6.9 yards after the catch per reception led all tight ends. Talk about breaking tackles and making plays! One NFC scout summed it up perfectly: "He's got great hands, he'll make a lot of circus, contested catches, especially in the red zone, and his blocking is high level. Just an all-around problem." A 6-foot-3, 245-pound problem for defenses, you mean! Remember his rookie year in 2023? He set the NFL rookie tight end record with 86 grabs, piling up 10 touchdowns and 889 receiving yards. He was a second-team All-Pro and a Pro Bowler right out of the gate. Then in 2024, he snagged 60 catches for 726 yards and seven scores. That's a resume that earns respect, even from the sidelines. The ESPN survey makes it clear that LaPorta carries serious weight across the league. He even landed as high as No. 3 on some voting ballots! Only Brock Bowers from the Raiders (No. 1), Trey McBride of the Cardinals (No. 2), and George Kittle from the 49ers (No. 3) ranked higher. With LaPorta "trending the right way" for training camp, according to Coach Campbell, all eyes will be on his recovery. If he truly returns to his pre-injury self, that No. 4 ranking might even be too low. Get ready to see this "all-around problem" back on the field.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.