fb

Latest News:

Jim Harbaugh RAVES about J.J. McCarthy’s Pro Day at Michigan

J.J. McCarthy's Pro Day was one Jim Harbaugh may never forget.

Detroit Lions to host Auburn CB Nehemiah Pritchett

Detroit Lions to host the speedster from Auburn.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin reaches out to Cameron Sutton

Mike Tomlin reaches out to Cameron Sutton but he is not about to spill the beans.

Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes raves about selecting TE Sam LaPorta

Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes has found a potential replacement for T.J. Hockenson in second-round draft pick Sam LaPorta out of, you guessed it, Iowa. LaPorta is a versatile player who can line up in different positions and is willing to block in the run game. Holmes is impressed by LaPorta’s athleticism and ball skills, and he believes he can be a mismatch in the passing game. Despite not being the biggest player, LaPorta plays bigger than his size and has a gritty finishing style.

Brad Holmes Detroit Lions Jared Goff Jeff Okudah Sam LaPorta

Key Points

  • Sam LaPorta was selected by the Lions with the No. 34 pick in the NFL draft
  • LaPorta is a tight end from the University of Iowa
  • He is versatile and can line up in different positions
  • LaPorta is willing to block in the run game
  • He has good ball skills and can be a mismatch in the passing game
  • Despite his size, LaPorta plays bigger and has a gritty finishing style

Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes raves about selecting TE Sam LaPorta

Here is what Holmes had to say about drafting LaPorta:

“Really, really athletic guy,” general manager Brad Holmes said. “He can play a lot of different positions, he can align in a lot of different spots. He can do it in-line. I really like his urgency and willingness (blocking) in the run game. For the most part, he’s active with his hands. He’s not the biggest guy, he’s not a 6-5, 250 (pound) guy, but he plays a lot bigger in line than you think. What really stands out when he detaches from the core (of the formation) and the work he can do on the perimeter. He can beat a DB, he can catch contested, he can run the slant, he’s got very good ball skills.

“He’s just a really good athlete,” Holmes continued. “He can bend, he can change direction, and again, I just really like he plays football, man. He’s just got a gritty feel about him. Although he’s athletic and he can do all that stuff in the pass game and he can be a mismatch all that stuff, he still has a gritty finishing style, especially with the ball in his hands.”

Bottom Line – Lions strike gold with LaPorta

I absolutely LOVE Sam LaPorta and I believe the Lions made a smart move by selecting him in the second round of the draft. LaPorta is an absolute beast, who is a versatile and athletic player who can make an immediate impact on the team. With his ball skills and gritty finishing style, LaPorta has the potential to be a star for the Lions. Say what you want about the Lions taking tight ends too high, but I can guarantee the fans are going to love this kid.

Newsletter

Don't miss

Photo of Kentucky girl goes viral following loss to Oakland University

Kentucky girl goes viral after Oakland University sharp shooter ruined her night!

Detroit Pistons sign Chimezie Metu

The Detroit Pistons sign Chimezie Metu, who has played in the NBA for 5 years.

Detroit Lions DE Romeo Okwara Announces He Is Stepping Away from Football

After 8 seasons in the NFL, Romeo Okwara Announces He Is Stepping Away from Football.

Detroit Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown to be featured in Netflix series in summer of 2024

Amon-Ra St. Brown to be featured in Netflix series this coming summer.

Detroit Red Wings prospect Sebastian Cossa ties team record

Detroit Red Wings prospect Sebastian Cossa has been rolling.
W.G. Brady
W.G. Brady
W.G. Brady is a Detroit-based journalist who has been covering the Detroit sports scene for Detroit Sports Nation for several years. He is in his early 30s and has a wealth of experience in the industry. Throughout his career, W.G. has established himself as a respected and knowledgeable journalist known for his in-depth coverage of the teams and athletes in Detroit. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for sports, W.G. has become a go-to source for fans and readers looking for the latest news and analysis on the Detroit sports scene. He has a good reputation in the sports community and is respected for his unbiased coverage of sports events. W.G. is known for his ability to uncover hidden stories and provide unique perspectives on the teams and athletes he covers. He has a good understanding of the city of Detroit and its sports culture, which he uses to inform his reporting and analysis. He continues to be a respected journalist in the Detroit sports industry.

Jim Harbaugh RAVES about J.J. McCarthy’s Pro Day at Michigan

J.J. McCarthy's Pro Day was one Jim Harbaugh may never forget.

Detroit Lions to host Auburn CB Nehemiah Pritchett

Detroit Lions to host the speedster from Auburn.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin reaches out to Cameron Sutton

Mike Tomlin reaches out to Cameron Sutton but he is not about to spill the beans.