The Detroit Lions have a decision to make with Sam LaPorta. The star tight end is eligible for a contract extension, and even coming off a major injury, he's done everything to earn a big payday. Now, it might be a matter of time before he gets a new deal.
LaPorta was among the top five tight ends in receiving yards before suffering a gruesome back injury that made him question whether he'd ever play again. He's back to full strength after an emotional journey, and it looks like he hasn't missed a beat.
His importance to the offense has always been evident, even on a stacked team. But now that Drew Petzing is the new offensive coordinator, he might be about to go off in 2026. That's why head coach Dan Campbell didn't mince his words when talking about his impact on the offense.
Sam LaPorta will be the ultimate weapon for the Lions
"It is pretty exciting. He feels pretty good. It would be great to get him back. He is a big piece for our offense; he is a weapon," said Campbell.
While all coaches usually gush about their players, Campbell had an interesting choice of words to talk about LaPorta. He didn't just say he was a great player who's vital to them; he called him a 'weapon.' That doesn't sound like a coincidence.
Drew Petzing helped elevate Trey McBride to superstar status. Granted, the Arizona Cardinals didn't have nearly as many weapons as the Lions, and LaPorta shouldn't have as big a target share as McBride had in Arizona.
LaPorta has shown that he can be impactful in-line, in the slot, and out wide. With more 12 and 13-personnel sets, he'll likely get more open looks as a pass catcher, especially given that he's not the sturdiest blocker out there.
He's never been much of a threat out of the backfield, but with a new offensive coordinator with a knack for getting tight ends involved in the flow of the offense, perhaps Petzing has some surprises in store for LaPorta.
Players coming off injuries always have to shake off the rust, especially ailments as delicate as the one LaPorta went through. Still, it sounds like he hasn't missed a beat, and everyone in the building is looking forward to watching him take yet another leap.
The Lions will have no shortage of weapons to feed, and that leaves them even less of a margin for error after such a disappointing campaign. Hopefully, the new guy calling the shots will know how to maximize his weapons, unlike his predecessor.
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