The Detroit Lions and tight end Sam LaPorta have broken off extension talks after trying to work out a long-term deal through the first few weeks of the season, sources told ESPN's Ian Rapoport.
LaPorta is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2027. The two sides are expected to reconvene after the campaign, though a new deal happening during the season is unlikely. Detroit can apply the franchise tag this offseason if the two parties are unable reach an agreement prior to free agency.
The 25-year-old is in the final year of his rookie deal after being selected in the second round of the 2023 draft out of Iowa. He's played just under 90% of the Lions' offensive snaps heading into Week 4, posting 14 catches for 144 yards and a touchdown.
LaPorta missed the final eight weeks of the 2025 campaign after undergoing surgery in November for a herniated disc. He missed only one regular-season game in his first two NFL seasons.
Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft signed a four-year, $75 million extension before the season. San Francisco 49ers star George Kittle remains the league's highest-paid tight end, with an average annual salary of $19.1 million.
LaPorta has been one of the most productive players at his position since entering the league. His 21 touchdowns since 2023 rank third among all tight ends, and he's recorded 200 catches for 2,248 yards during that stretch.
