Several mock drafts across the country predicted the Detroit Lions would select a tight end on Day 2 of the 2023 NFL draft. Iowa’s Sam LaPorta was not on any of them. But that is who the Lions grabbed.
On Friday, the Lions drafted LaPorta with the 34th overall pick, adding another weapon to offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s scheme. LaPorta will fill a void created last season when the Lions traded his fellow Hawkeye T.J. Hockenson to the Minnesota Vikings.
Here are five things to know about LaPorta:
1. He’s extremely tough
After having surgery to repair a torn meniscus he suffered during a Week 11 in November vs. Minnesota, LaPorta played in the Music City Bowl last December. At less than full strength, Hooker was a key contributor to the Hawkeyes’ 21-0 shutout versus Kentucky. His 27-yard grab -- the longest reception for Iowa that game -- setup the Hawkeyes only offensive touchdown.
2. LaPorta is reunited with his college teammate
Last season at Iowa, LaPorta and Jack Campbell -- whom the Lions selected with the 18th overall pick this year -- were both co-captains of the Hawkeyes football team.
How to buy Sam LaPorta’s Lions jersey
3. He hold several records at Iowa
Iowa has a decorated history of tight ends such as George Kittle, Noah Fant and ex-Lion T.J. Hockenson. But it’s LaPorta who is the school’s all-time reception leader at the position with 153 and he has the second-most receiving yards at the position with 1,786.
4. Will be another weapon for quarterback Jared Goff
With a 4.5 40-yard dash time, LaPorta will not receive rave remarks for his speed. But he has an ability to create separation, is a solid route-runner and has a knack for disrupting zone coverage. Couple that with his physicality and he could prove to be a nice target for Jared Goff this season.
5. He has some hardware to his name
Last season at Iowa, LaPorta caught 58 passes for 657 yards and one touchdown. His efforts earned him First-team All-Big Ten honors.
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April 29, 2023 at 12:31PM
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5 things to know about Detroit Lions second-round pick Sam LaPorta - MLive.com
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