As the NFL offseason winds down and fall edges closer, the Detroit Lions have every reason to smile. While other teams grapple with new transitions, Detroit is quietly stacking up wins off the field — and it’s thanks to their rising tight end star, Sam LaPorta.
Despite losing both their offensive and defensive coordinators, the Lions’ core remains strong. And one piece of that core just proved his elite status. In ESPN’s latest rankings, voted by NFL executives, coaches, and scouts, LaPorta landed at No. 3 on the list of best tight ends heading into the 2025-26 season — beating out Kansas City Chiefs’ Travis Kelce.
Kelce might dominate headlines for dating Taylor Swift, but LaPorta is commanding respect on the field.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, LaPorta’s dip in numbers last season (60 receptions, 726 yards, 7 TDs) was due to a knee injury — yet, NFL insiders still see him as a complete package. One NFC executive didn’t hold back, calling him “a stud” and adding:
“He’ll be a cornerstone player for a long time.”
Even at No. 3 behind Brock Bowers and George Kittle, LaPorta’s versatility, red zone presence, and consistency put him in rare air.
In a team loaded with weapons, the fact that LaPorta continues to shine only highlights his value. The Motor City may not have Taylor Swift in the stands, but they’ve got a tight end who’s every bit of a rock star.
Detroit fans, take note — your Lions aren’t just building hype. They’re building legacy.
