Miami Dolphins: 5 Tight ends the Fins should target in the 2023 NFL Draft

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - NOVEMBER 19: Sam LaPorta #84 of the Iowa Hawkeyes runs with the ball against the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the first quarter of the game at Huntington Bank Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Hawkeyes defeated the Golden Gophers 13-10. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - NOVEMBER 19: Sam LaPorta #84 of the Iowa Hawkeyes runs with the ball against the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the first quarter of the game at Huntington Bank Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Hawkeyes defeated the Golden Gophers 13-10. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) /
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Iowa tight end Sam LaPorta tosses the ball back to an official after pulling in a reception in the fourth quarter against Michigan during a NCAA college football game at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. Iowavsmichiganfb 20221001 Bh /

4. Sam LaPorta, Iowa

Sam LaPorta is an excellent receiving tight end who can be a weapon down the middle seam. He has the quickness and athleticism to be too much for most linebackers and safeties to handle. His sideline skills are also impressive, with good toe-tapping ability and soft, natural hands. He is a high-point receiver who can make leaping, contested catches and is a mismatch weapon. LaPorta’s quickness as a route-runner and hands-catching ability make him a red-zone threat.

LaPorta is not afraid to go across the middle and has excellent run-after-the-catch skills. He is also adept at finding the soft spots in the zone, making him an ideal target for his quarterback. LaPorta has three-down tight end potential and is a reliable blocker who can contribute to the ground game. His blocking skills improved during his time at Iowa, and he has the desire, attitude, and fight necessary to be a quality blocker at the next level.

In the NFL, teams are always looking for three-down tight ends who can be a weapon in the passing game and make a difference in the run game. LaPorta has the potential to be exactly that kind of player. He has shown himself to be a good receiver and a decent blocker, and with more development, he could become an excellent player.

For the Miami Dolphins, adding a player like Sam LaPorta would be a smart move. LaPorta’s skillset fits perfectly with what the Dolphins need, and he could make an immediate impact on the field. With his quickness, athleticism, and excellent receiving skills.