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The Lions have broken off contract talks with star tight end Sam LaPorta, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport
This comes after the two sides tried to work out a long-term deal during the first few weeks of the season.
LaPorta, 25, is set to hit the market as a free agent in the 2027 offseason. The All-Pro would become a top target if things stay as they are.
Rappaport details that LaPorta has a chance at a deal that would make him one of the NFL’s highest-paid tight ends if Detroit resumes negotiations.
LaPorta, in his return from last year’s season-ending back surgery, is showcasing that he is healthy this year. A deal is unlikely because both sides couldn’t reach an agreement over the first four weeks of the season.
So far through three games, the fourth-year veteran is playing about 90 percent of Detroit’s offensive snaps; LaPorta has 14 catches for 144 yards and a touchdown while blocking at a high level.
Pro Football Focus gave LaPorta a 76.8 blocking grade heading into Week 4, fourth-best among tight ends.
He would hit free agency in the middle of his prime, which is a rarity at his position.
Detroit has shown it prioritizes retaining young talent.
The Lions recently re-signed running back Jahmyr Gibbs to a three-year, $67.5 million extension. Keeping the 24-year-old in the Motor City through the 2030 season.
Star edge rusher Aiden Hutchinson got a four-year, $180 million extension last season. Also, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell each inked four-year extensions worth more than $100 million.
The Lions will have the sixth-best cap situation in the NFL next offseason with $93 million in free space.
So Lions fans should be optimistic that their star tight end will stay put eventually.
