WATCH: Sam LaPorta clocks 40-time ranking with the best tight ends from Iowa
In recent history, the Iowa Hawkeyes have been an NFL factory for the tight end position. Iowa has produced some top-end talent at the position, most notably all-pro George Kittle in 2017 and pro-bowler T.J. Hockenson in 2019. And the next up to likely continue this tradition for the Hawkeyes in the 2023 Draft is Sam LaPorta.
LaPorta is partaking in the 2023 NFL combine going on in Indianapolis. The most recent former Hawkeyes tight end recently hit the field to record his 40-yard dash time, and he did not disappoint. LaPorta posted a noteworthy 40 time of 4.59. But how does that stack up to the other two Hawkeye legends, Kittle and Hockenson? Well, take a look at the video below to see LaPortas run simulcam cast with Kittle’s and Hockenson’s best attempts.
The fastest TE 40 yard dashes from 2023 NFL Combine
The tight ends were the final group of day three to run a 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. With an impressive group — including multiple projected first-rounders in the 2023 NFL Draft — they had a chance to improve their stock that much more.
They did not disappoint.
Former Miami star Will Mallory led all tight ends with a 4.57u run in the event, followed closely by former Old Dominion tight end Zack Kuntz at 4.55u. Iowa tight end Sam LaPorta also clocked in at 4.59u in his first run. One of the more impressive runs came from 6-foot-7, 275-pound former Georgia tight end Darnell Washington, who ran a 4.65u in his first try.
All times are unofficial.
40-yard dash times
Will Mallory, Miami — 4.54 seconds
Zack Kuntz, Old Dominion — 4.55 seconds
Sam LaPorta, Iowa — 4.59 seconds
Luke Musgrave, Oregon State — 4.62 seconds
Luke Schoonmaker, Michigan — 4.63 seconds
Darnell Washington, Georgia — 4.65 seconds
Josh Whyle, Cincinnati — 4.69 seconds
Tucker Kraft, South Dakota State — 4.70 seconds
Brenton Strange, Penn State — 4.70 seconds
Blake Whiteheart, Wake Forest — 4.70 seconds
Michael Mayer, Notre Dame — 4.72 seconds
Davis Allen, Clemson — 4.84 seconds
Payne Durham, Purdue — 4.87 seconds
