The Detroit Lions may not need to look far for a major offensive boost in 2026. If Sam LaPorta returns to full health, Detroit could be getting back one of its most dependable weapons without making a single roster move. But his return will come with another big piece of news.

After months of uncertainty around the Pro Bowl tight end's recovery from back surgery on a herniated disc, a recent update from Dan Campbell suggested his improving health. While it is good news for Detroit's offense, it also sparked conversations about LaPorta receiving a boost.

"He is also one of the best tight ends in the NFL, due a contract extension. Considered a priority for the Detroit Lions," said Ian Rapoport, NFL insider, sharing on X on June 17.

Teams do not usually discuss market-resetting contracts for players whose health is yet a major concern. But LaPorta's name was mentioned in this convo, which hints at confidence in his recovery and his future production as well.

“We like where he’s going,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said prior to Tuesday, June 16 minicamp practice, about LaPorta's recovery. “He’s trending the right way.”

Before his season-ending injury, he had already established himself as one of the NFL's premier tight ends.

His route-running, reliable hands, and red-zone protection made him the centerpiece of Detroit's passing attack. He recorded 86 receptions, 889 receiving yards, and set the all-time franchise record for ten receiving touchdowns in a single season in 2023.

Recent OTA and minicamp reports have been encouraging. LaPorta has returned to limited on-field activities. The franchise is already willing to reward cornerstone players with extensions, and LaPorta appears to be next if he continues progressing as expected.

A healthy season could place him among the highest-paid tight ends in football while making Detroit's championship goals stronger.

An NFL Insider Predicts Sam LaPorta Can Reset the NFL Tight-End Market

LaPorta has become important to the Lions, and the tight end market may soon see a sudden financial shift. His importance to Detroit's offense has made him a prime candidate for a lucrative extension.

"Wouldn't be surprised if LaPorta and Tucker Kraft for the Green Bay Packers both reset the tight end market that is badly needing to be reset," said Rapoport.

LaPorta and Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft could surpass the current benchmark contracts at this position. San Francisco 49ers' George Kittle and Arizona Cardinals' Trey McBride, the top players in the NFL, are earning more than $19 million annually. But the market has remained unchanged compared to other positions.

Given LaPorta's age and role in Detroit's long-term plans, Rapoport believes he is well-positioned to get a record-setting deal.

According to Spotrac, LaPorta could command $18.4 million annually on a projected four-year extension valued at $73.6 million overall.

What are your views on Sam LaPorta's chances of getting a contract extension? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar