Former Iowa Tight End Sam LaPorta Has Record Day For Detroit

Last season the Detroit Lions traded former Hawkeye tight end T.J. Hockenson to the Minnesota Vikings. The move made some people in the football world shake their heads. What were the Lions thinking? Tight ends don't just grow on trees! Well, they do at the University of Iowa, or should I say at 'Tight End U.'

The Lions selected another Iowa tight end in this spring's NFL Draft, taking Sam Laporta 34th overall in the 2nd round. LaPorta showed glimpses of promise during the pre-season but has really started to shine during the regular season. Sports Illustrated reports that LaPorta has recorded at least five catches in each of his first three games, including a career-best eight catches on Sunday against Atlanta. He finished with a career-high 84 yards receiving and his first NFL touchdown!

LaPorta's efforts helped fuel the Lions to a 20-6 win over Atlanta. SI reports that LaPorta even had a number of family members in attendance on Sunday. Along with the win, LaPorta has also set a new NFL record. SI reports that LaPorta now has 18 receptions through three games. That breaks the record for most catches through three games by a rookie tight end. He also ranks 2nd in receiving yards with 186.

LaPorta and the rest of the Lions have a short turnaround as they play at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football. The game can be seen on Amazon Prime.