Could Iowa's Sam LaPorta's Contract Woes Send Detroit Lions to Tight End in 2027 NFL Draft?

The Detroit Lions are fighting to turn their 2026 season around, but general manager Brad Holmes is already scouting ahead. With the 2027 NFL Draft still six months away, early projections suggest the Lions could target cornerbacks, a versatile safety, an athletic linebacker, and a tight end whose draft stock may hinge on the future of Iowa native Sam LaPorta.

NFL Draft analyst Jeff Risdon, writing for The Detroit Lions Podcast, recently identified five college prospects who could interest Detroit in the first round. His list includes two cornerbacks, a safety, a linebacker, and Oregon tight end Jamari Johnson. While these are early scouting projections rather than confirmed targets, they offer a clear window into the positions Holmes may prioritize next offseason.

Why the Secondary Is a Top Priority for Detroit

Three of Risdon's five selections play in the secondary, a reflection of Detroit's defensive struggles through the first four games of 2026. The Lions have already explored trade options to bolster their pass defense, signaling that cornerback and safety help could remain a focus beyond this season.

Notre Dame safety Brauntae Johnson stands out for his versatility. At roughly 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, he has the size to play near the line of scrimmage and the athleticism to cover ground in the passing game. Johnson's potential fit becomes more interesting given Brian Branch's contract situation. Detroit wants to keep Branch long-term, but Johnson could serve as insurance if negotiations stall.

Georgia cornerback Ellis Robinson IV brings length, physicality, and a competitive edge that fits Detroit's defensive identity. Risdon projects Robinson as a late first-round or early second-round pick, which could put him within Detroit's range depending on how the season shakes out.

Mississippi State's Kelley Jones offers something the Lions currently lack: exceptional size at outside cornerback. Listed at 6-foot-4, Jones has the physical tools to match up with bigger receivers, though his ability to handle quicker route runners will be key to his development.

Georgia Linebacker Chris Cole Could Add Speed and Coverage

The fourth prospect on Risdon's list is Chris Cole, an athletic linebacker from Georgia. Standing about 6-foot-3 and weighing 238 pounds, Cole has the size for traditional linebacker duties and the speed to cover tight ends and running backs.

That coverage ability would be valuable for a Detroit defense that has struggled against opposing passing attacks. While Jack Campbell remains a cornerstone at linebacker, adding another defender who can handle difficult assignments in space could be a smart investment. Cole may need time to develop into a complete NFL linebacker, but his athletic profile makes him an appealing option for a premium pick.

Sam LaPorta's Contract Standoff Could Reshape the Draft Plan

The most surprising name on Risdon's list is Oregon tight end Jamari Johnson, especially since Detroit already has Sam LaPorta, one of the NFL's most promising young tight ends. But LaPorta's long-term future in Detroit is uncertain after contract negotiations stalled earlier this month.

LaPorta, a former Iowa standout, has said he remains optimistic about staying with the Lions. Still, no extension has been reached, leaving Holmes with a significant financial decision. If the two sides cannot agree, Johnson could become a replacement option. He also offers value as a complement to LaPorta, combining receiving ability with physical blocking.

Johnson's background as a former quarterback adds another layer to his understanding of offensive concepts and defensive coverage. However, spending a first-round pick on a tight end would be a major commitment for a team with pressing defensive needs. Whether that becomes realistic will depend heavily on LaPorta's contract situation and the development of Detroit's other tight ends.

What's Next for Brad Holmes and the Lions?

The 2027 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 29 through May 1 in Washington, D.C. Detroit's first-round position will depend on how the rest of the season unfolds, and Holmes has given no indication he has narrowed his focus to these five players.

Still, the positions represented in Risdon's projections align with Detroit's roster needs. The Lions have made significant financial commitments to several core players, so finding affordable young talent will remain essential. Adding a starting-caliber defensive back, improving coverage at linebacker, or preparing for a potential tight end departure could all become priorities.

For now, the Lions have a season to play, starting with Sunday's matchup against Arizona. But when April arrives, the names on Risdon's list could be central to Detroit's first-round decision. The biggest question may not be which prospect Holmes likes best today, but which position becomes impossible to ignore by draft night.