Tight end Sam LaPorta's interview for "Pardon My Take" created a stir after last week after the podcast aired. The 2023 second-round pick voiced frustration over the lack of progress on a new deal with the Detroit Lions, indicating he would be fine playing for another team next year. "Like last year, whatever it was, Week 9, Week 10, I break my f---ing back for the team.
And then I'm going out there this year and I'm balling, and maybe they're just not showing the love," LaPorta said. "…I'm going to continue to do my thing and ball out, and in three months, if I don't get to wear the Honolulu blue and play for the Lions anymore, it's going to be all good. I'll go get paid somewhere else." A majority of the Lions fan base viewed LaPorta's comments as selfish, greedy, disloyal and tone deaf by airing his grievances publicly during the season.
A few appreciated LaPorta's candor. Coach Dan Campbell seemed annoyed by being repeatedly asked questions about LaPorta's comments during a press conference last Friday. LaPorta later clarified his comments when meeting with the media.
He stated that he prefers to remain with the Lions. LaPorta was a non-factor in the Lions' passing game until the final drive during Sunday's 20-17 win over the Green Bay Packers. He finished with one reception for 18 yards on two targets.
LaPorta isn't showing any ill effects from the herniated disc in his back, which he suffered nine games into last season, that required surgery, although it was his quietest game since early in the 2024 season. Despite the slow day, LaPorta is on pace for 79 receptions, a career-high 946 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. LaPorta is making $5.8 million in the final year of his four-year rookie deal.
Contract extension talks between the Lions and Jack Bechta, LaPorta's agent, broke off about three weeks ago. The Lions are typically among the NFL's most proactive teams in locking up core players before their rookie contracts expire. Bectha also represents Tucker Kraft, who is the latest relevant data point in the tight end market.
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