Sam LaPorta TE Iowa: Scouting Report

Height: 6’3

Weight: 245

Overall

Sam LaPorta is a physical, receiving tight end in Iowa’s run-heavy offense. In his 4 seasons with the Hawkeyes, he played in 46 games, starting 33 of them. He is a good athlete for his size and is a big play threat after the catch with his ability to break tackles and accelerate up the field.

Pass Game

LaPorta was used often as a receiver and he lined up primarily in the slot or even on the boundary. He is a good route runner with sufficient speed and can create separation when matched up against off coverage. He struggles creating separation against man coverage when they get hands on him at the top of his routes. He has very good hands and can make tough contested catches down the field. After the catch, he is an excellent playmaker. He runs hard and has the power to break tackles and fight for extra yards. He may not have the speed to make plays deep down the field but his ability to break tackles and consistently move the pile at the end of plays will be very valuable in the pros.

Run Game

When LaPorta lined up on the line of scrimmage he showed the size and strength to make key blocks in the run game but he needs to block with more temperament. He needs to be better at driving his man off the ball and keep his legs moving after initial contact. He shows good effort but if he can learn to block with a more violent intent, he can develop into a versatile every down tight end.

Last Word

LaPorta projects best as a primary receiving “H” tight end who can be used on the line as a blocker in 12 personnel sets. His ability to make tough contested catches and fight for extra yardage will make him very valuable on 3rd downs and in the redzone. His strength and athleticism will allow him to make an impact on special teams as well.

One-Liner: Sam LaPorta is a strong tight end who excels after the catch with his ability to break tackles and with further development as a run blocker, he can develop into a quality 3-down tight end.

Grade: 6.6 (Lower End Starter with Y or H Ability)

Games Watched: 2022 - Iowa State, Minnesota, Ohio State, Illinois

Team Fits: Detroit Lions, Seattle Seahawks, Carolina Panthers