Sam LaPorta vs T.J. Hockenson
Two tight ends fantasy managers weigh against each other for 2026. Here is the head-to-head on projections, expert consensus, ADP and usage, with our Clutch Score verdict on who to draft.
Who to draft
Strong edge · 95% confident
Sam LaPorta- Higher projection: 197 vs 155 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 83 vs 177
- More points per game: 11.9 vs 7.5
Sam LaPorta and T.J. Hockenson are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Sam LaPorta holds the edge in expert consensus (TE8 to TE21). Sam LaPorta typically comes off the board first, around pick 57 (round 5) to T.J. Hockenson's pick 165. The 2026 projections clearly separate them: Sam LaPorta at 197 PPR points (11.6 per game) versus T.J. Hockenson at 155.
Last season T.J. Hockenson carried the heavier workload (79% snap share, 67 touches to Sam LaPorta's 49), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Sam LaPorta is the younger option (age 25), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Sam LaPorta is the clear pick on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and an earlier ADP.
Head-to-head
| Stat | LaPorta | Hockenson |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 197 | 155 |
| Points / game | 11.9 | 7.5 |
| Games played | 9 | 15 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #83 | #177 |
| ADP | 57 | 165 |
| Positional rank | TE26 | TE25 |
| Snap share | 90% | 79% |
| Red-zone touches | 4 | 12 |
| Age | 25 | 29 |
| Bye week | 6 | 6 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2025 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: Sam LaPorta or T.J. Hockenson.
Frequently asked
Should I draft Sam LaPorta or T.J. Hockenson in 2026?
Sam LaPorta is a clear call over T.J. Hockenson for 2026, on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and an earlier ADP.
Who is projected to score more, Sam LaPorta or T.J. Hockenson?
Sam LaPorta carries the higher 2026 projection at 197 PPR points (11.6 per game), compared with 155 for T.J. Hockenson.
Where are Sam LaPorta and T.J. Hockenson being drafted?
Sam LaPorta has an ADP around pick 57 (round 5), while T.J. Hockenson goes closer to pick 165 (round 14).
Who is ranked higher, Sam LaPorta or T.J. Hockenson?
Expert consensus ranks Sam LaPorta (TE8) ahead of T.J. Hockenson (TE21) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.