Sam LaPorta 2023 NFL Draft Profile
We have seen over time players make their way to Indianapolis, put on good performances, and see themselves shoot up draft boards. While it may be hard for tight ends to do it in what is viewed as a loaded class, Iowa’s Sam LaPorta stood out as one of the better guys this year. He flashed a lot of potential, but what does his draft profile look like? Let’s talk about it.
LaPorta was a three-star recruit in the 2019 class, opting to attend Iowa. He played in 12 games during his freshman year, catching 15 passes for 188 yards but no touchdowns. He did flash great ability as a blocker. His best year was in 2021, catching 53 passes for 670 yards and three touchdowns. He would only catch one touchdown last year over 53 catches but keep in mind that this Iowa offense was among the worst in the nation.
Trey had high praise for LaPorta in his combine notes, noting he ran well and basically glided through the gauntlet. If you want to read all the combine notes, click here.
There is quite a bit to like about LaPorta, even if he couldn’t really display his skills while at Iowa. His route tree is very impressive for a tight end, as he would split out in college. He’s got great hands, dropping very few passes that came his way. I spoke briefly about his blocking skills but they are worth noting, only allowing one sack as a pass blocker in college. LaPorta possesses a MEAN stiff arm — love that. Once he gets some momentum, he’s a hard man to take down. He has the athleticism to adjust to a ball that might be underthrown.
However, one of the things I would knock LaPorta on is his mindset to come back to the ball when running routes. He would wander quite a bit in college when the play breaks down in the pocket. While he did only allow one sack in college, he struggled against speed rushers. I would like to see him vastly improve his run block because as of right now he is a bit of a liability.
Sam LaPorta is an interesting prospect in the 2023 draft cycle. I think he has all the tools to become a starter in the NFL. Is he the next George Kittle? Probably not. But he has his own skills to be able to make it. I would give LaPorta a late day-two grade as someone you could probably grab in the middle to late part of the third round.
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