Lions’ Sam LaPorta breaks NFL rookie record for catches by tight end

Detroit Lions breakout rookie Sam LaPorta set a new NFL record for catches in a first season by a tight end.

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

LaPorta’s 82nd catch was a touchdown, the first of the game vs. the Vikings on Sunday. He entered the game with 860 recieving yards on the season. Mike Ditka currently holds the record for receiving yards by a rookie tight end with 1,076 yards.

LaPorta was the No. 34 overall pick by Detroit in last year’s draft, and I think it’s safe to say, it has paid off for Brad Holmes.