The Detroit Lions have witnessed a significant shift in their tight end position with Sam LaPorta rising to prominence, overtaking the legacy of T.J. Hockenson, who now competes for the Minnesota Vikings. LaPorta’s breakout performances in the 2023 and 2024 seasons have marked him as the premier tight end in the NFC North, solidifying his importance to the Lions’ offense.
Impressive Rookie Year and Growth in Second Season for LaPorta
Selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Sam LaPorta made an immediate impact. He shattered the rookie tight end record by recording 86 receptions for 889 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns. These accomplishments earned him a place on the Second Team All-Pro roster, highlighting his instant value to Detroit’s offensive scheme. Although the start of his second season was slow, LaPorta rebounded to demonstrate his versatility with a varied route tree and an ability to stretch defenses. His partnership with quarterback Jared Goff has become a key facet of the Lions’ passing game. As he prepares for his third season, improving his blocking in the run game is expected to enhance his overall influence on the field.
T.J. Hockenson’s Road to Reestablishing His NFL Standing with the Vikings
Meanwhile, T.J. Hockenson, now 28 and recovering from a torn ACL that sidelined him for half of last season, looks to regain his status as an elite tight end. Finishing last year with 41 receptions and 455 yards, Hockenson’s performance was hampered by a lack of touchdowns until a late playoff appearance against the Rams. The Vikings have retooled their offense, with Hockenson now receiving passes from quarterback J.J. McCarthy, whose playmaking skills could open up more chances. With star wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison drawing defensive focus, Hockenson is positioned to exploit matchups in the passing game. Additionally, the presence of dynamic backs Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason adds complexity to opposing defenses, which may increase scoring opportunities for Hockenson in the coming season.
Tucker Kraft’s Emerging Role with the Green Bay Packers
In Green Bay, Tucker Kraft rounds out the NFC North tight end group as a promising talent ready for a breakout. Despite being somewhat underappreciated, Kraft posted 50 receptions last season, ranking 18th among tight ends, and totaled 707 yards with a noteworthy 14.1 yards per reception average, second-best in the league. Kraft excels particularly in yards after the catch, leading the NFL with an average of 9.3 yards per reception gained post-catch and tying for first with 15 forced missed tackles. Inspired by 49ers star George Kittle, Kraft combines skill with toughness, suggesting he could break into the top 10 tight ends this season.
Shifting Dynamics Shape an Exciting NFC North Tight End Competition
The NFC North tight end landscape is rapidly evolving, with Sam LaPorta establishing himself as Detroit’s leading threat, T.J. Hockenson aiming to return to form in Minnesota, and Tucker Kraft seeking to make a greater impact in Green Bay. Each player brings distinct strengths that will play crucial roles in their teams’ successes. LaPorta’s record-setting rookie achievements, combined with his continued growth, position him prominently for the future. Hockenson’s efforts to rebound from injury and leverage a strong supporting cast could revitalize his career, while Kraft’s impressive yards-after-catch ability could elevate the Packers’ offense. This dynamic competition promises to be a focal point in the NFC North’s 2024 season and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Sam LaPorta good?
A. From Weeks 1 to 9, LaPorta ranked 20th in fantasy points per game with an average of 8.0. In Weeks 10 to 18, he improved to seventh place by scoring 13.8 fantasy points per game. Over the past two years, his receiving grade was 83.6, which ranked sixth among tight ends. George Kittle, Trey McBride, Mark Andrews, Brock Bowers, and T.J. Hockenson had higher grades.
Q. How good is Sam LaPorta?
A. For the second year in a row, Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has made the NFL Top 100 list. Since 2021, the NFL has released this list yearly, showcasing the top 100 players based on votes from fellow players during the previous season.