Tucker Kraft’s new contract probably makes for uncomfortable reading in Detroit. The Green Bay Packers committed $75 million to their tight end, while Sam LaPorta is still waiting for the Detroit Lions to put a long-term deal in front of him that he wants to sign.
Former NFL quarterback Chris Simms believes that comparison helps explain why LaPorta’s frustration has become so public. Both players have dealt with major injuries, and only one has secured his next payday.
Chris Simms Connects Sam LaPorta’s Frustration to Tucker Kraft’s Deal
LaPortaaired his frustration on “Pardon My Take,” discussing the physical risk of playing without an extension after last season’s back injury.
“You go out there every week and you bear the risk of getting hurt,” LaPorta said.
He also made clear that he could envision a future elsewhere. “I’ll go get paid somewhere else. So, whatever,” he said.
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Simms interpreted those comments as anger from a player who believes he has earned a commitment. He pointed to Kraft’s return from a torn ACL and Green Bay’s willingness to make a substantial investment.
“So that’s where he’s bitter,”Simms said, “and that’s where it gets tough in the NFL, you know, for a locker room and the personal aspect of this.”
The Packers announced Kraft’s extension Sept. 12, before their season opener.Spotrac lists the deal at four years and $75 million, averaging $18.75 million annually, with a $26.5 million signing bonus and a maximum value of $92 million.
That timing strengthens the basic comparison. Green Bay committed before Kraft played a regular-season game in his return from the knee injury.
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Detroit’s Spending and LaPorta’s Injury Complicate the Discussion
Simms also acknowledged that Detroit has an expensive roster to maintain. He named Aidan Hutchinson, Penei Sewell, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams while explaining why another major agreement could be complicated.
“I know they love him,” Simms said of LaPorta. “But I think it is a little bit of, yeah, trying to figure out the checkbook, the prices it’s going to take to sign him up.”
He wondered whether LaPorta’s previous back injury might be affecting Detroit’s willingness to make a long-term commitment, while acknowledging he did not know its severity. That was Simms’ speculation, with no confirmation that medical concerns are holding up negotiations.
LaPorta’s current production gives him plenty to bring to the table. Through Week 6, he has 27 catches for 316 yards and three touchdowns in five games, ranking first in PFN’sTE Impact rankings with a 90.4 grade.
His public complaint has already drawn pushback from Lions fans, but those numbers explain why he feels he is doing his part. Detroit still has the option of using the franchise tag if an extension remains elusive.
Kraft has his contract. LaPorta has the production, an unresolved negotiation, and increasingly little interest in pretending the wait is painless.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.