There is no doubt about it that the Iowa Hawkeyes have become the “Tight End U” of America with their incredible run producing NFL caliber talent at the position. The list is long and it is extensive, but it proves that the Hawkeyes can always count on production from the tight end.
George Kittle. T.J. Hockenson. Noah Fant. C.J. Fiedorowicz. Tony Moeaki. Dallas Clark. And now time for the next one’s turn to show what he is made of. Sam LaPorta.
Sam LaPorta has been such a staple for the Hawkeyes’ offense and continued his production so well that it has earned him recognition as a semifinalist for the John Mackey Award. The award is given out annually to the best tight end in college football.
Sam LaPorta ➡️ Mackey Semifinalist#Hawkeyes x @JohnMackeyAward pic.twitter.com/bXBky62PIS
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) November 8, 2022
The award is named after former NFL great tight end and Hall of Famer John Mackey who changed the game at the tight end position. Mackey played in the NFL for 10 years and elected to the Pro Bowl five times. Mackey won a Super Bowl as a member of the Baltimore Colts.
LaPorta has been a calming force for the Hawkeyes offense and really found his groove the last few weeks. He leads the offense in receptions (44) and yards (458) on the season. His last four games have all seen him surpass the 50-yard mark.
LaPorta also owns the crown of most catches by any tight end at Iowa in the history of the program with 139 during his tenure there. As he finishes his career out at Iowa, more receptions can be expected but also be prepared for LaPorta to continue excelling at the next level.
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