NFLTradeRumors.co | By Logan Ulrich | Last updated Oct 21, 2026 3:56 PM ET
Lions TE Sam LaPorta has already shared that contract talks between him and Detroit aren’t going well. The two sides broke things off after what LaPorta termed a “stalemate.”
Recently in an interview with Barstool Sports, he had even stronger words to express his frustration with the lack of progress on a new deal.
“I think the combination of getting your heartstrings twisted as well as the violent sport that we play, it sucks,” LaPorta said. “It’s disappointing that you go out there every week and you bear the risk of getting hurt.
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“Like last year, whatever it was, Week 9, Week 10, I break 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.”
LaPorta sounded like a player who’s looking forward to free agency as he continued the interview.
“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.”
The Lions have been able to lock up just about every extension candidate they’ve wanted to keep so far on lucrative deals. But eventually teams run out of budget.
LaPorta was coming off a back injury last year that kept him on injured reserve for half the season. However, he’s been healthy and productive so far. The two sides had been negotiating for the first few weeks of the regular season
The Lions would have the franchise tag available this coming offseason to buy more time to negotiate with LaPorta. It’s projected to be at least $17.5 million.
LaPorta, 25, was named first-team All-Big Ten in 2022 following his senior season at Iowa before the Lions selected him in the second round with the No. 34 overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft.
He’s entering the final year of a four-year, $9,465,990 rookie contract that includes a $3,884,356 signing bonus and is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent in 2027.
In 2026, LaPorta has appeared in five games for the Lions and recorded 27 receptions on 37 targets for 316 yards and three touchdowns.
We’ll have more on LaPorta as the news becomes available.
