Sam LaPorta is a generational talent: Through just three NFL seasons, LaPorta has 181 receptions, 20 touchdowns, and is just 12 scores away from breaking Charlie Sanders' franchise record (31) for tight end touchdowns. His presence transforms any offensive system.
New OC Drew Petzing brings a tight-end-friendly offense: In Arizona, Petzing's offense ranked among the NFL's top 10 in 12 personnel usage (two tight ends) and third in 13 personnel (three tight ends). Trey McBride set the single-season TE reception record (126) in his system in 2025.
Tyler Conklin adds reliable veteran depth: After four straight seasons with 51+ receptions (2021–2024), Conklin gives Detroit a proven pass-catching option behind LaPorta and Brock Wright.
Jackson Meeks is the wild card: The converted wide receiver bulked up to 235 lbs and has been taking reps at tight end. His special teams ability as a returner could carve him a permanent roster spot.
Why this matters: The NFL is shifting toward multi-tight end formations to force defenses into less complex packages. Detroit now has the personnel to dictate matchups, control the clock, and create explosive play-action opportunities.
The Lions enter training camp with a deep and versatile tight end group. Sam LaPorta (87) and Brock Wright (89) return as the established top duo after both missed significant time in 2025 — a combined 14 games lost to injury. LaPorta's back injury in Week 10 against Washington required surgery, but his rehab appeared ahead of schedule, participating in limited OTA and minicamp work. He is expected to be full go by camp.
Tyler Conklin (83), signed this offseason, adds a veteran presence. While his 2025 season with the Chargers was quiet (7 catches in 13 games), his track record from 2021–2024 speaks volumes: 61, 58, 61, and 51 receptions respectively across stints with Minnesota and the New York Jets. He impressed during OTAs before sitting out minicamp with an undisclosed injury.
The hiring of offensive coordinator Drew Petzing signals a strategic shift. In Arizona (2023–2025), Petzing led the NFL in 13 personnel usage rate (12.5%) and ranked near the top in 12 personnel deployment. According to Pro Football Focus, Arizona had two tight ends on the field for 36% of offensive snaps in 2025.
Petzing has stated he won't use multi-tight end sets in Detroit simply because he leaned on them in Arizona — but the personnel suggests it's an ideal fit. LaPorta is a top-tier receiving threat and willing blocker. Wright is a reliable blocking tight end with sure hands. Conklin provides an experienced release valve underneath.
> *"I think it's been great so far in terms of competition and attention to detail,"* said first-year tight ends coach Steve Oliver, who was promoted after five years with the Lions. *"We're working on things that are different here and there and I'm really happy with where they're at."*
Perhaps the most intriguing storyline is Jackson Meeks. Listed as a wide receiver at 6'2", 235 lbs, Meeks bulked up significantly and saw considerable reps at tight end during spring workouts. The undrafted free agent out of Syracuse — where he posted 78 catches for 1,021 yards and 7 touchdowns in 2024 — could serve as a hybrid weapon.
Meeks also brings special teams value. With Greg Dortch joining the return game and Tom Kennedy providing a spark late in 2025, Meeks' added size and YAC ability could make him a contributor on kickoffs and punts. If he can't crack the return rotation, a backup tight end role behind LaPorta and Wright seems increasingly likely.
| Stat | Detail |
|------|--------|
| 12 | Touchdowns LaPorta needs to break Charlie Sanders' franchise TE record (31) |
| 18 | Receptions of 25+ yards by LaPorta since 2023 (2nd most in NFL) |
| 29% | 12 personnel usage rate in Petzing's 2025 Arizona offense (Top 10) |
| 10.5% | 13 personnel usage rate (3rd in NFL) |
| 231 | Total receptions by Conklin from 2021–2024 |
| 240 | Yards after catch by LaPorta through Week 10 of 2025 (4th most in NFL) |
| 1,021 | Receiving yards by Meeks in his final season at Syracuse |
LaPorta's rookie season (2023) was historic — he became just the second first-year player in NFL history with 85+ catches, 850+ receiving yards, and 10+ touchdowns. His 20 touchdowns through three seasons rank among the best ever for a tight end. If he maintains his trajectory, the franchise record (31 by Charlie Sanders) is within reach by season's end.
Will Sam LaPorta be fully healthy for the start of training camp?
Yes. LaPorta's rehab from season-ending back surgery in 2025 has been ahead of schedule. He participated in limited OTA and minicamp work and is expected to be at full strength when camp opens.
What is "12 personnel" and why does it matter for the Lions?
"12 personnel" refers to offensive formations with one running back and two tight ends. This package forces defenses into base (heavier) personnel, limiting their ability to use nickel or dime sub-packages. Drew Petzing's offense in Arizona ranked among the NFL's best in deploying these looks, and Detroit now has the tight end talent to make it effective.
Where does Jackson Meeks fit into the Lions' plans?
Meeks is a versatile hybrid player. Originally a wide receiver, he has added significant bulk (now 235 lbs) and has been taking tight end reps. He could contribute as a pass-catching tight end, a return specialist on special teams, or both. His strong spring performances make him a candidate for a roster spot.
How does Tyler Conklin compare to the Lions' other tight ends?
Conklin is an experienced receiving tight end who averaged 463 receiving yards per season from 2021–2024. While LaPorta is the clear star and Wright excels as a blocker, Conklin provides reliable depth and a proven track record that the younger players (Gordon, Horton, Kitselman) lack.
Did the Lions lose any tight ends from last season?
No. The entire tight end room returns, with the addition of Tyler Conklin. This gives Detroit continuity and depth they haven't had in recent years.
For Lions fans: The tight end position is deeper and more versatile than ever. LaPorta's health is the single biggest factor in the offense's ceiling, but the supporting cast — Wright, Conklin, and Meeks — gives Detroit flexibility to dictate matchups.
For fantasy football players: Sam LaPorta is a top-tier TE1 who could see a massive target share in Petzing's tight-end-friendly system. Monitor his health closely in camp, but his upside is elite.
For NFL strategists: The league's shift toward 12 and 13 personnel is being led by teams like Detroit. If Petzing's system translates, the Lions could be a blueprint for how to use tight ends to control defensive alignments.
Who this affects most: Jared Goff and the Lions' run game stand to benefit most. More tight ends on the field means better blocking, more play-action threats, and fewer loaded boxes for running backs.
Do you think Sam LaPorta can break Charlie Sanders' franchise touchdown record this season? And will Jackson Meeks carve out a true hybrid role, or settle in as a special teams ace? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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*Article compiled by Yanuki using the latest trends and data.*
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