The tight end position is more loaded than ever around the NFL, and the Detroit Lions have one of the best, according to a survey taken around the league.
ESPN surveyed league executives, coaches, and scouts to rank the best 10 players at 11 different positions. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler explained the rankings process ahead of the list itself:
“Voters gave us their 10 best players at a position, then we compiled the results and ranked candidates based on number of top-10 votes, composite average and dozens of interviews, with research and film study help from ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen. In total, more than 70 voters submitted a ballot on at least one position, and in many cases all positions. Additional voting and follow-up calls with those surveyed helped us break any ties.
Each section includes quotes and nuggets from the voters on every ranked player — even the honorable mentions. The objective was to identify the best players for 2025. This was not a five-year projection or a career achievement award. Who are the best players today?”
The Lions have one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL thanks to its wide variety of talent, including their own young tight end.
Sam LaPorta landed at No. 3 on this list despite a decrease in production last year compared to his rookie season. Last year’s survey results listed LaPorta at No. 4.
“[Lack of production is] not really a factor because Detroit has so many players they need to get the ball to,” an NFC executive said, according to ESPN. “He’s a stud. Will be a cornerstone player for a long time.”
His lowest ranking in the survey this year was No. 8 while his highest was No. 2. LaPorta fell behind 22-year-old Raiders star Brock Bowers, and mainstay among the leagues top tight ends George Kittle this year.
“He doesn’t have a lot of weaknesses — good at just about everything,” an AFC scout said. “If you want a complete tight end, he fits the bill.”
Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride and Kansas City Chiefs veteran Travis Kelce rounded out the top-five of the list.
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Lions TE Sam LaPorta ranked highly in ESPN’s tight end polling