Although NFL teams must compete in the present, they also have to think ahead and make decisions that will keep the roster strong for years down the line.

In a recent hypothetical deal proposed by Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports, the Kansas City Chiefs — led by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes — would take a forward-thinking approach. The idea involves Kansas City trading first-round picks with the Detroit Lions while also sending Detroit a conditional fourth-round selection in 2027 in exchange for standout tight end Sam LaPorta, who set the rookie tight end postseason receiving record with 176 yards in 2023.

Vacchiano pointed out that while the Chiefs recently brought back veteran tight end Travis Kelce, the longtime star is now 36 years old and no longer at the peak of his career. Kelce remains productive and continues to be one of Mahomes’ most trusted targets, but he could be entering the final season of what many expect to be a Hall of Fame career.

Meanwhile, LaPorta is recovering from back surgery and approaching the final year of his rookie contract. With the Lions facing future financial decisions involving several young players, there’s a possibility the tight end could become expendable. Vacchiano suggested a deal like this might normally require Kansas City to give up a second-round pick, though the proposed alternative would involve the teams exchanging first-round selections as part of the package.

If such a move were to happen, LaPorta could give Mahomes another reliable weapon and help maintain the strong quarterback-tight end connection the Chiefs have relied on for years. As Vacchiano emphasized, Kelce has served as Mahomes’ safety valve for nearly a decade, but Kansas City will eventually need to identify a long-term successor.

LaPorta appears capable of filling that role. The dynamic tight end has shown he can create yards after the catch, run crisp routes, and shake defenders with surprising agility. He has also proven dependable in contested catch situations and contributes as a capable blocker, making him a well-rounded option in the passing game for quarterback Jared Goff in Detroit.