A lot of people questioned the strategy that the Detroit Lions used during the 2023 NFL Draft. The Lions targeted players who were undoubtedly talented, but the value didn’t match up with many analyst’s big boards.
One of the selections that left people scratching their heads was tight end Sam LaPorta in the second round. LaPorta was the second tight end off the board behind Dalton Kincaid, who was selected in the first round by the Buffalo Bills.
During his collegiate career at Iowa, LaPorta wasn’t regarded as the most explosive athlete, but he was a sure-handed receiver who got the job done as a blocker. Anyone who doubted the impact he could have has been quickly proven wrong.
Through the first three games of the season, LaPorta has been one of the most productive tight ends in the NFL. He has caught 18 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown, immediately becoming a key part of the Lions’ offensive attack.