The Detroit Lions will be without one of their most reliable pass-catchers for at least a month.
Ahead of Sunday night’s matchup in Philadelphia against the Eagles, the team revealed Saturday that tight end Sam LaPorta has been placed on injured reserve because of a back issue. His IR designation sidelines him for a minimum of four games.
Detroit was already managing a lengthy injury report going into the weekend, but losing LaPorta may prove the most difficult challenge.
With him unavailable, the offense will lean more heavily on Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams to carry the load. The situation should also create added opportunities for tight end Brock Wright and wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa to step into larger roles.