Overview
- LaPorta vented on the Pardon My Take podcast Wednesday, saying he “broke” his back for Detroit and that he will sign elsewhere in 2027 if the team does not reach an agreement.
- Reports earlier this month said talks had been paused or broken off, and LaPorta has shifted contract handling to his agent while negotiations remain stalled.
- LaPorta is in the final year of his rookie deal after a November 2025 microdiscectomy and has produced 27 catches for 316 yards and three touchdowns through five games this season.
- Lions general manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell say they want to keep LaPorta, but the team faces salary-cap pressure and high market benchmarks for young tight ends that complicate a long-term offer.
- If Detroit cannot agree on a deal, it could use the franchise tag to retain LaPorta for 2027 or let him test free agency, a choice that would affect the team’s cap planning and roster moves next offseason.