The Detroit Lions confirmed on Saturday afternoon that tight end Sam LaPorta has been moved to injured reserve, officially sidelining him for a minimum of four upcoming games. LaPorta had already been ruled out for Sunday night’s contest against the Philadelphia Eagles after a back issue prevented him from practicing throughout the week.
With this roster move, the earliest LaPorta will be eligible to suit up again is Week 15.
His absence leaves Detroit with only Brock Wright and Ross Dwelley available at tight end as they head into a highly anticipated primetime matchup in Philadelphia.
But LaPorta’s IR designation wasn’t the only roster activity on Saturday. The Lions also parted ways with veteran defensive lineman Pat O’Connor, while promoting offensive lineman Michael Niese to the main roster. In addition, wide receivers Tom Kennedy and Jackson Meeks were called up from the practice squad for Sunday’s game.
Losing LaPorta creates a major gap in Detroit’s offensive scheme, but the team will attempt to adjust and move forward as they prepare to face the defending NFC champions under the national spotlight on Sunday night.
