LaPorta Contract Challenge
Detroit Lions Face Difficult Sam LaPorta Contract Decisions After Injury
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The Detroit Lions are heading into training camp with a contract decision they can no longer ignore. Tight end Sam LaPorta, a second-round pick from 2023, is in the final year of his rookie deal — and no extension talks have started yet, according to Athlon Sports.
LaPorta has been one of the best tight ends in the NFL since day one. But a back surgery in 2025 cost him eight games and complicates what Detroit must pay him. The clock is ticking — and waiting could get very expensive.
LaPorta Proved His Worth Before Getting Hurt
LaPorta hit the ground running in Detroit. In 2024, he posted 726 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, according to Star-Telegram. Those are elite tight end numbers. He quickly became a core piece of the Lions' offense under quarterback Jared Goff.
His 2023 rookie season was just as impressive. LaPorta established himself as a reliable weapon right away. That back-to-back strong production made him one of the most exciting young tight ends in the league — before injury stepped in.
Back Surgery in 2025 Threw a Wrench in Extension Talks
LaPorta missed eight games in 2025 after undergoing back surgery. That kind of injury raises real questions for any team writing a big check. Back problems can linger. They can rob players of their speed and explosiveness — two things LaPorta's game depends on.
Detroit has used the injury as reason to pause. No extension talks are currently happening, according to Macon Telegraph. The Lions want to see LaPorta healthy and productive before committing long-term money. That caution makes sense — but it also comes with a cost.
Waiting Could Push LaPorta's Price Past $20 Million Per Year
Right now, LaPorta's next deal is estimated at $18.4 million per year, according to Herald Sun. But if Detroit waits until after the 2026 season to extend him, that number could climb past $20 million annually. The tight end market tends to reset every offseason.
Every game LaPorta plays healthy this season raises his asking price. If he returns to his 2024 form — 726 yards, seven touchdowns — other teams will notice. Detroit could find itself in a bidding war it could have avoided by acting early.
Why LaPorta Tops Gibbs as Detroit's Most Urgent Priority
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs also needs a new deal, but LaPorta's situation is more urgent. Tight ends who produce at his level do not stay cheap for long. The position is harder to replace, and elite ones are rare across the entire league.
Detroit must decide soon. Lock LaPorta in now at $18.4 million per year — or risk paying $20 million or more later. Either way, the Lions have a genuine star at tight end. The question is whether they move fast enough to keep him at a fair price.
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