The Unpacking Future Packers Countdown is a countdown of 100 prospects that could be selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 2023 NFL draft.
George Kittle, Dallas Clark, T.J. Hockenson, and Noah Fant are just some of the tight ends that have come out of the Iowa football program, AKA TEU.
Sam LaPorta is next in line and could be a target in the second round for the Green Bay Packers as they search for playmakers at tight end. The Hawkeyes tight end checks in at No. 7 in the Unpacking Future Packers countdown.
3rd down. A catch over the middle in traffic ain’t no thing for Sam LaPorta.
According to PFF the Iowa TE led the Big 10 TEs in yards after the catch (299) and catches of 15-plus yards (18) last season.
Could be a day two target for the Packers in the 2023 NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/fj4fpmAzej
— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen_Rupp) August 18, 2022
A three-star recruit out of Illinois, LaPorta hauled in 15 receptions for 188 yards during his first season on campus. In eight games, LaPorta recorded 27 receptions for 271 yards and one touchdown during the 2020 campaign. The following season, LaPorta recorded 53 receptions for 670 yards and three touchdowns.
In Iowa’s stagnant offense, LaPorta finished the 2022 campaign with 58 receptions for 657 yards and one touchdown.
“In 2022 Laporta broke the Iowa career record for receptions with 153 and sits in second place in total receiving yards,” Alec Fullenkamp, a contributor for BlackHeartGoldpants.com said. “Both are impressive and exponentially so considering he holds these marks at the University of Iowa. While being the priority for opposing defenses and not having anything close to decent quarterback play, Sam’s output this past year is absurd.”
LaPorta is a difference-maker as a pass-catcher. According to TruMedia, during the 2021 season 71.7 percent of LaPorta’s receptions went for a first down or a touchdown and he finished the season with 18 catches of 15-plus yards.
“Laporta’s greatest strength is 100 percent his receiving ability,” Fullenkamp said. “As mentioned previously, Laporta put up monster numbers throughout his career despite the last few seasons being the only real threat defenses had to key in on. When you are number one on an opposing scouting report and you are still getting it done, that’s elite.”
As a route runner, LaPorta shows good burst in and out of his breaks due to sharp footwork. The Iowa tight end wins off the line with his initial quickness…
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