The Detroit Lions have a new offensive coordinator in town, and no one might be happier about that than Sam LaPorta. Drew Petzing worked wonders in Arizona with Trey McBride, and LaPorta's stock skyrocketed with this hire.
That said, it doesn't mean that the Lions have to buy all that stock right now. As good a player as LaPorta is, and as productive as he's been for this team, he's coming off a major back injury. Considering that, they can't afford to jump the gun and sign him to a big contract extension right away.
The Lions Need to Wait Before Giving Sam LaPorta a Contract Extension
LaPorta played in 17 and 16 games in his first two years in the league, but he missed eight this season. Back injuries and surgeries can be life-changing, and there's no way to tell how he'll recover from this, especially given the physical nature of this game.
Granted, he's one of the most proficient pass catchers at the position, and he should be a no-brainer candidate to get an extension now before he gets more expensive. Unfortunately, that injury changed everything.
On top of that, it's not like the Lions need to sign him right away. Of course, that would help their relationship, but they can always wait until after the 2026 season ends and use the franchise tag on him. Players don't usually appreciate that, but they can always work on a long-term deal while he's tagged.
LaPorta can have his best year yet with Petzing calling the shots. Despite the Cardinals' terrible quarterback situation, Trey McBride still finished the season with 126 receptions for 1,239 yards and eleven touchdowns. The Lions have many more mouths to feed in the passing game, but LaPorta has already shown what he can do on the open field.
The Iowa product had the second-highest Pro Football Focus grade in the league this season (82). So, it's clearly not a matter of talent or skill, but health. We've seen how big deals can backfire once players can't shake off the injury bug, and the Lions will be wise to err on the side of caution here.
Hopefully, LaPorta will come back as strong as ever, if not better. That should be a great problem to have for any team, and if his market value goes up as a result, so be it. That's a bridge the Lions will have to cross once they get there.