Archive · 22 Nov 2025
Detroit Lions' Sam LaPorta Unlikely to Return This Season After Back Surgery
The Detroit Lions' star tight end, Sam LaPorta, had back surgery and is unlikely to play again this season.
He was a key player in the Lions' offense, and now his backup, Brock Wright, will take on a larger role.
The team's coach, Dan Campbell, says it's 'very, very slim' that LaPorta will return before the playoffs.
Detroit Lions' star tight end Sam LaPorta had successful back surgery
Head coach Dan Campbell says LaPorta's return before playoffs is 'very, very slim'
LaPorta was already ruled out for Sunday's game against Philadelphia Eagles
LaPorta's blocking and reliability on third down and in the red zone made him crucial to Lions' offense
Backup tight end Brock Wright expected to see increased snaps in LaPorta's absence
- Who
- Sam LaPorta, Detroit Lions' tight end
- What
- Underwent back surgery, unlikely to return this season
- When
- Friday, unspecified date for surgery
- Where
- Detroit Lions' team
- Why
- Due to a back injury
Optimistic Fans
Pessimistic Fans
LaPorta's Return
Optimistic Fans
Hope for a miracle recovery before playoffs
Pessimistic Fans
Accept the reality of his unlikely return
- Age
- 24
- Drafted
- Second round, 34th overall in 2023
- 2025 Season Stats
- 3rd on Lions with 489 receiving yards, 40 receptions, 3 TDs
- Backup
- Brock Wright