Sam LaPorta Expresses Frustration Over Contract Stalemate with Lions
The Lions tight end is in the final season of his rookie deal and has voiced dissatisfaction with ongoing extension negotiations.
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has voiced significant frustration regarding the lack of progress in his contract extension talks, indicating a willingness to explore opportunities with other teams if an agreement isn't reached.
LaPorta, currently in the final year of his rookie contract, expressed his disappointment on the Barstool Sports podcast “Pardon My Take.” He stated, “I think the combination of getting your heartstrings twisted as well as the violent sport that we play, it sucks. It’s disappointing that you go out there every week and you bear the risk of getting hurt.” He added, “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.”
This sentiment marks a more direct expression of dissatisfaction compared to his remarks a few weeks prior, when he described contract negotiations as having reached a stalemate. At that time, LaPorta indicated his focus was not on becoming the highest-paid tight end in the league.
“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,” LaPorta said on the podcast. “I’ll go get paid somewhere else. So whatever.”
The current benchmark for tight end contracts is held by the 49ers' George Kittle, whose four-year, $76.4 million deal began in 2025. LaPorta is in line for a substantial increase from his current four-year, $9.466 million rookie contract.
LaPorta was selected 34th overall in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He earned Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro honors in his rookie season. In 2025, he missed eight games due to a fully herniated disc that required surgery, and he also dealt with a hip injury during the preseason. Despite these past issues, LaPorta has been praised by head coach Dan Campbell for his strong performance this season, with 27 receptions for 316 yards and three touchdowns through five games.