Sam LaPorta

Sam LaPorta enters Year 4 as a 25-year-old tight end for the Detroit Lions, holding a #4 dynasty ranking (78.0 score, stable trend). He garnered 489 receiving yards on 40/49 targets in 2025, including three touchdowns, at an 89.2% snap rate. A 20-first-down profile suggests an opportunistic, pass-heavy usage path for LaPorta within the Lions’ McVay-tree system.

LaPorta benefits from an 89.2% snap share in 2025 within John Morton’s McVay-tree system, which prioritizes slot production. His 40 targets and 20 first downs on 49 receptions reflect the Lions’ commitment to LaPorta’s receiving role, as well as his ability to stay on the field. The 489 receiving yards on 40 targets translate to a 12.2-yards-per-target average, which LaPorta should continue to approach in 2026.

LaPorta suffered a DNP in Week 11 of 2025 due to non-injury reasons. His 25-year-old age and moderate rushing exposure (one attempt in 2025) minimize structural injury concerns.

Snap rates have remained stable, with no dips below 76%, despite the Lions’ inconsistent offense. LaPorta’s slot-friendly usage (20 first downs) within the McVay-tree system positions him as a safety valve, protecting his target share from volatility.

LaPorta’s role in the McVay-tree system is tailored to his receiving skills, emphasizing slot production and opportunistic targets. Coach Dan Campbell’s commitment to the passing game and John Morton’s continuation of the McVay-tree principles ensure LaPorta’s snap share remains secure.

Stable LaPorta’s dynasty score has held steady across the past two seasons, with a stable snap trend in 2025 averaging 89.2% across 17 games.

Ceiling clears the 2025 86.9-point finish if LaPorta’s target share expands beyond 40 and his first-down count increases past 20. Floor tracks near 86.9 given the stable snap rate and McVay-tree system.