LaPorta Warns Lions He Will Seek Pay Elsewhere If Extension Talks Fail
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta publicly expressed frustration over stalled contract extension talks, stating he will accept being paid by another team if a deal is not reached before the 2027 free agency window. LaPorta cited the physical risks of the sport and a previous season-ending back injury as reasons for his disappointment, noting that the organization has not shown sufficient commitment despite his current high-level performance. While the Lions have paused negotiations, LaPorta remains optimistic about his market value and is prepared to test free agency if necessary.
Key points
- LaPorta appeared on the 'Pardon My Take' podcast to criticize the Lions for not offering a contract extension despite his recent production.
- He referenced a back injury sustained in Week 10 of the 2025 season, arguing that the physical toll of the sport warrants financial security.
- LaPorta stated that if he does not sign an extension, he will become an unrestricted free agent in 2027 and accept offers from other teams.
- The Lions have paused extension discussions, though head coach Dan Campbell has publicly praised LaPorta's work ethic and performance.
- LaPorta is currently playing on the final year of his rookie contract and ranks fifth among tight ends in receiving yards this season.
Background
LaPorta was selected by the Lions in the second round of the 2023 NFL draft and earned a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie year. He suffered a season-ending back injury in 2025, which impacted his production that year. Extension talks were paused in early October 2026 after failing to reach an agreement, with the Lions retaining the option to use the franchise tag if no deal is reached.
How outlets are covering it
NBC Sports and the Detroit Free Press both highlight LaPorta's public frustration and his willingness to test free agency, emphasizing his comments about the Lions not 'showing the love.' Bleacher Report provides additional context on his current statistical performance, noting his 316 receiving yards in five games and a 139.1 passer rating from quarterback Jared Goff when targeting him. All sources agree that the negotiations are in a stalemate, but LaPorta's tone suggests a shift from optimism to resignation if a deal is not reached soon.
Why it matters
LaPorta's public comments signal a potential shift in the power dynamic of the negotiation, as he is no longer hiding his willingness to leave. This could influence the Lions' decision to either offer a lucrative extension or use the franchise tag to retain him for one more year. His performance this season has made him a valuable asset, and other teams may be interested in signing him if he becomes a free agent.
What to watch
The Lions and LaPorta's representatives may revisit extension talks later in the season or during the offseason. If no deal is reached, LaPorta will become an unrestricted free agent in 2027, and the Lions may use the franchise tag to retain him for one more year. LaPorta's performance on the field will likely influence the outcome of the negotiations, as other teams will be watching his production closely.
- Sam LaPorta: If I don’t get a deal from the Lions I’ll go get paid somewhere else NBC Sports
- Sam LaPorta not feeling contract 'love' from Lions ahead of 2027 free agency ESPN
- TE Sam LaPorta says Detroit Lions 'not showing the love' amid contract talks Detroit Free Press
- Sam LaPorta Says He Broke His 'F--king Back' for Lions, Sounds Off on Lack of New Contract Bleacher Report
- ‘I’ll go get paid somewhere else’: Lions star TE vents over stalled contract talks MLive.com
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