Detroit Lions Sam LaPorta Breaks NFL Record for Receptions by Rookie TE

Detroit Lions rookie tight end Sam LaPorta has broken the NFL record for receptions by a rookie tight end.

The record was previously held by Keith Jackson, who had 81 catches in 1988 with the Philadelphia Eagles.

LaPorta recorded the record-breaking reception Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. His first catch of the game, a touchdown pass from Jared Goff, broke the record, giving him 82 on the season. Entering Sunday's game, he had posted 81 catches for 860 yards and nine touchdowns. 

Mike Ditka currently holds the record for receiving yards by a rookie tight end with 1,076 yards in 1961. 

LaPorta has been a vital part of Detroit’s passing game since entering the league, as evidenced by his record-setting production. The Iowa product also holds the record for receiving yards by a Lions rookie, along with the best receiving yards total by a Lions' tight end. 

The rookie has been rewarded for his performance by being a Pro Bowl selection, one of five players selected for the Lions this season. Seven other players were named as alternates. 

LaPorta was a second-round selection by the Lions in 2023, being picked No. 34 overall out of Iowa. 

The Lions have gotten plenty of production out of their rookie class, as a whole. First-round running back Jahmyr Gibbs entered Sunday's game with 915 rushing yards and 316 receiving yards, along with 10 all-purpose touchdowns. 

Linebacker Jack Campbell has started 11 games this season and recorded 83 tackles, four for loss and one sack. Along with LaPorta, fellow second-rounder Brian Branch has recorded three interceptions, 73 tackles and seven tackles for loss. 

The instant impact by the core group of rookies has helped what has been a banner season for the Lions. Detroit entered Sunday with the opportunity to tie the franchise record for wins and will host its first playoff game since 1993 next week.