Lions’ Sam LaPorta Could Miss Rest of Season After Surgery
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is unlikely to return to action this season after undergoing back surgery. This was confirmed by head coach Dan Campbell. Campbell called the possibility of LaPorta playing again this season “remote” after the medical procedure.Despite the situation, the coach highlighted a positive aspect: “The good news is that the procedure went really well in the long run.” LaPorta, 24 years old, was ruled out for Sunday’s game against Philadelphia and was placed on the injured reserve list last week. The player, selected for the Pro Bowl in 2023, ranks third on the team in receiving yards (489), with 40 receptions and three touchdowns, behind All-Pro receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. The Lions selected LaPorta in 2023 as a second-round pick (overall pick number 34).“I think we would be fortunate to have the opportunity to get him back for the rest of the season,” Campbell stated. “I consider that possibility to be very, very remote.”
Dan Campbell
Without LaPorta, Campbell acknowledges that the absence will be felt, but states that the team will adjust and adapt, with Brock Wright taking on a more important role.
Lions offensive coordinator John Morton expressed that LaPorta’s absence will be felt “all the time.” “He’s an exceptional blocker and receiver, he can do it all. But he was really reliable on third down in the red zone, that’s the most important thing,” Morton commented on Thursday. “His blocking on first and second down. The way he’s improved his blocking has been incredible. So, our other guys, all the tight ends, have to step up.”
