7 months agoSam LaPorta's exceptional rookie season fueled his historic entrance into the NFL, while also creating an impactful shift within the tight end landscape. Detroit's selection of LaPorta during Round 2 of the 2023 NFL Draft (34th overall) infused him into a favorable environment, as he was positioned to secure significant playing time and extensive targeting as the Lions' primary tight end. LaPorta capitalized by providing Detroit with a prolific and reliable presence at his position. LaPorta established a new NFL record for receptions by a rookie tight end (86/5.1 per game). His league-high 10 touchdowns also made him the third rookie tight end to attain a double-digit touchdown total. LaPorta also finished second among all tight ends in targets per route run (26.6%), and was fourth in air yards (826), fourth in red zone targets (16), fifth in receiving yards (889/52.3 per game), sixth in yards per route run (1.97), and eighth in yards after catch (364). LaPorta also paced all tight ends in contested catches (13), according to PFF. LaPorta also finished as a TE1 in 11 of his matchups, which propelled him to third with an average of 14.1 points per game from Weeks 1-18. He also tied for second in fantasy points per route run (0.52) according to Fantasy Points Data. LaPorta is primed to retain his integral role in Detroit's potent offense and should be the first tight end selected during Round 3 in dynasty startup drafts, and best-ball leagues.--Phil Clark - RotoBaller