**Sam LaPorta has opened the 2026 season strongly after a back injury limited him to nine games and just three touchdowns in 2025.** Through five contests the Lions tight end leads all TEs in receiving yards with 316 on 27 catches (73% catch rate) while posting three receiving scores, including a season-best 88-yard, one-TD outing in Week 5. New offensive coordinator Drew Petzing’s scheme has featured him heavily in the intermediate areas and red zone, mirroring the usage that boosted Trey McBride in Arizona. Detroit’s 3-2 record and high-powered attack featuring Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown continue to create scoring opportunities, though LaPorta’s recent contract-extension talks have stalled ahead of 2027 free agency. A Week 6 bye provides rest before a stretch that includes divisional games and potential playoff implications that could sustain volume for the 25-year-old.