A slew of 2023 draft picks received lucrative extensions around the NFL this summer, including Lions first-rounders Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell. Still without a deal is their teammate, Sam LaPorta.
Not only is the tight end still seeking a long-term extension, but he is in the final year of his rookie deal because he was a second-round pick and doesn't have a fifth-year option for 2027.
LaPorta sent his clearest message yet to the Lions on Wednesday in what could be a last-ditch effort to spark a deal.
Here's a look at what LaPorta had to say.
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Sam LaPorta sends frustrated message to Lions
LaPorta expressed an openness to playing elsewhere in 2027 in an appearance on the "Pardon My Take" podcast.
"I think the combination of getting your heartstrings twisted as well as the violent sport we play — it sucks," LaPorta said. "It’s disappointing that you go out there every week and you bear the risk of getting hurt. Like last year, whatever it was, Week 9, Week 10, I break my f—ing back for this team. And then I’m going out there this year, and I’m balling, and maybe they’re just not showing the love."
#Lions TE Sam LaPorta on not getting a contract extension: “It’s disappointing that you go out there every week and bear the risk of getting hurt. Like last year, I broke my f—ing back for the team. And then I’m going out there this year and I’m balling, and maybe they’re just not showing the love. “I’m going to continue to do my thing and ball out, and in three months, if I don’t get to wear the Honolulu blue and play for the Lions anymore, it’s going to be all good. I’ll go get paid somewhere else. So whatever.” (via @PardonMyTake)
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) October 21, 2026LaPorta didn't indicate he would request a trade before the Nov. 10 deadline, but he made it clear his time with the Lions might be winding down.
"I'm going to continue to do my thing and ball out, and in three months, if I don't get to wear the Honolulu blue and play for the Lions anymore, it's going to be all good," LaPorta said. "I’ll go get paid somewhere else. So whatever."
That blunt message could just be a way to gain some leverage in contract talks, but frustration appears to be high for the tight end after his 2025 season ended due to injury. LaPorta has played in all five games for the Lions this season, posting 316 yards and three touchdowns on 27 catches.
If no deal is reached, the Lions will have another decision to make on LaPorta. Here are the details.
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Sam LaPorta contract
LaPorta is in the final year of his four-year rookie deal and doesn't have a fifth-year option, so he is on track to become a free agent in 2027.
The Lions would have the option to use their franchise tag on LaPorta and keep him off the market if it got to that point. Whether they would use it knowing they haven't been able to find common ground on a long-term deal is a different question.
If LaPorta did hit free agency or was tagged and dangled as a trade candidate, he would be one of the top young players on the market regardless of position.
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