Breaking down Sam LaPorta’s tape ahead of 2023 NFL draft

Sam LaPorta is the latest to exit the tight end factory in Iowa City. Here’s what 2023 NFL draft analysts have to say about LaPorta’s tape.

Here’s something unsurprising: Iowa football has another stellar tight end entering the NFL draft.

Few schools have done more in recent years to earn the “Tight End U” moniker than the Iowa Hawkeyes. Recent players such as George Kittle, TJ Hockenson, and Noah Fant have solidified the Black and Gold’s reputation as the NFL pipeline for the tight end position.

Iowa’s offense has not been good at all over the past two seasons, and it could have been a heck of a lot worse without star man Sam LaPorta. He has routinely led the Big Ten tight ends in nearly every category, dragging a pedestrian Iowa passing attack single-handedly. His two 650-yard-plus receiving seasons with Iowa definitely should be weighed even heavier considering the offense around him.

Given his combination of college production and athleticism, LaPorta has resurfaced as one of the favorite tight ens in the upcoming draft. Take a look at what has social media buzzing about the latest model from the Tight End Factory in Iowa City.