In 2025, Sam LaPorta might have taken a step back.
The reports notwithstanding, this does not imply that the Detroit Lions are eager to trade him.
Unlike Maxx Crosby and A. J. Brown, LaPorta’s name hasn’t been publicized as widely. However, a transaction is beginning to be speculated upon by some analysts.
However, Ben Solak and Dan Graziano of ESPN disagree. They estimate that there is just a 10% chance that LaPorta will be traded during the upcoming offseason.
According to Graziano, the Lions want to extend four of their 2023 draught picks—LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch—but there are folks around the league who are unsure if they will be able to complete all of those transactions or if they will have to trade someone. Despite the Lions’ inability to extend LaPorta, I believe the likelihood of a trade is quite low because Detroit is still in a win-now mode.
The most important thing is that last statement. Selling their top-tier tight end doesn’t benefit the Lions enough right now.
LaPorta most likely stays regardless. They simply want to see him make a little progress in the right direction.
LaPorta underwent back surgery this past season (with 489 receiving yards and three touchdowns) and hasn’t been as explosive as he was in his first year (with 889 yards and 10 scores in 2023), but he is still one of the most intriguing young receivers at the position, according to Solak. If LaPorta returns to form, teams in need of a tight end with a large reception volume may be tempted to use a draft pick on him now rather than risk a bidding war in free agency in 2027.
The Lions should see that as a sign as well. It may be best to keep LaPorta if more clubs are vying for him. He is, without a doubt, still an asset.
