Jack Campbell, Sam LaPorta highest-graded NFL Week 13 rookies per PFF

Adjusting to the NFL is going swimmingly for Jack Campbell and Sam LaPorta. The Lions’ youngsters are the highest-graded Week 13 rookies.

Some say that the transition from the collegiate ranks to the NFL can take some time and be a large adjustment for players. While that is true for many players, two former Iowa Hawkeyes are bucking the trend and performing like seasoned NFL veterans already.

Two rookies, Jack Campbell and Sam LaPorta, are paying huge dividends to the Detroit Lions early in their careers and are a huge part of the Lions’ 9-3 record and their best start in 60 years. The two are helping the Lions on their march to the playoffs and perhaps the NFC’s No. 1 seed.

Coming down the stretch of the NFL season, these two are elevating their play. Jack Campbell was graded out as the NFL’s highest-graded rookie linebacker in Week 13 per Pro Football Focus.

On the season, Jack Campbell has appeared in all 12 games while starting eight. He has 60 total tackles, a sack, and arguably most importantly, has recently begun to call the plays for the defense which highlights his high-level football IQ.

Not to be outdone, Sam LaPorta is doing the same on the offensive side of the ball for the Lions. Pro Football Focus has Sam LaPorta as the highest-graded rookie overall from Week 13.

LaPorta is up to 64 receptions, 679 yards, and six touchdowns early in his NFL career. His average yards per catch of 10.6 make him a walking first down. He is second in tight end receptions in the NFL, fourth in yards, and tied for first in touchdowns. The rookie is already performing among some of the best tight ends in the game.

The Lions struck gold with these two Iowa Hawkeyes and appear to be set up at the tight end and middle linebacker position for quite a while

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