The Carolina Panthers have added another tight end to their top-30 visit club. And that addition, according to Justin Melo of The Draft Network, is University of Iowa’s Sam LaPorta.
.@HawkeyeFootball TE Sam LaPorta is a premier prospect in the 2023 Draft.
Top 30: #Panthers.
Workouts: #Cowboys, #Bills, #Dolphins. #Titans Pro Day meeting.Virtuals: #Texans, #Seahawks, #Packers, #Bengals + more.@SamLaPorta x @TheDraftNetworkhttps://t.co/pRj7ROTIf3
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) April 17, 2023
A Highland, Ill. native, LaPorta became a Hawkeye in 2019—following a prolific high school career in which he played both as a wide receiver and as a defensive back. He earned all-state honors on offense and all-area honors on defense—both for his junior and senior campaigns.
LaPorta went on to log four collegiate seasons in Iowa City. He amassed 153 receptions for 1,786 yards and five touchdowns over 40 games.
The 6-foot-3, 245-pounder, additionally, tested rather at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine. He recorded a 4.59-second 40-yard dash—the third-fastest amongst tight ends—as well as a 6.91-second 3-cone drill.
While they did sign Hayden Hurst to a three-year deal earlier this offseason, the Panthers could still look to add to what’s been a very underwhelming position group since the departure of franchise great Greg Olsen.
