The Detroit Lions received encouraging news regarding star tight end Sam LaPorta as he continues his recovery from back surgery that prematurely ended his 2025 season.
LaPorta’s campaign was cut short after he underwent surgery to repair a herniated disc, forcing him to miss the final eight games of the season. Without one of their top offensive playmakers, Detroit finished with a 9-8 record and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2023.
Fortunately for the Lions, LaPorta’s rehabilitation has progressed well, putting him on track to return as a full participant when training camp opens next month in Allen Park.
Dan Campbell Shares Optimistic Outlook on Sam LaPorta
Speaking before Tuesday’s minicamp practice, Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed confidence in LaPorta’s recovery and availability moving forward.
“We like where he’s going,” Campbell said. “He’s trending the right way.”
The update is welcome news for a Detroit offense that missed LaPorta’s all-around impact during the second half of last season.
Lions Coaches Praise LaPorta’s Importance
Tight ends coach Steve Oliver emphasized just how valuable LaPorta is to Detroit’s offense, noting that his contributions extend far beyond the passing game.
“He’s a difference maker when he’s on the field,” Oliver said. “Run game. Pass game. Protection. All three facets.”
Oliver credited Brock Wright for stepping up during LaPorta’s absence but acknowledged that replacing a player of LaPorta’s caliber is difficult.
“You definitely notice Sam’s absence because of the impactful player he is. We’re definitely excited to get him back out there,” Oliver added.
Lions Tight End Depth Chart Remains Strong
While LaPorta continues his recovery, Detroit has added depth at the position. Veteran Tyler Conklin joined the team in free agency and is expected to contribute alongside Brock Wright. The Lions also signed former Tennessee tight end Miles Kitselman as an undrafted free agent.
Sam LaPorta Reflects on Surgery Decision
Following the season, LaPorta explained why surgery ultimately became necessary after hopes of a quicker recovery faded.
“It was really unfortunate,” LaPorta said in January. “I was hoping to get back in that two-to-three-week range, but I was in a lot of pain. I was walking around like an 80-year-old man, and it just wasn’t getting any better.”
LaPorta added that both he and the organization believed surgery was the best long-term solution.
“Backs aren’t anything to mess with, and I want a long, healthy career. It was the best route.”
Is Sam LaPorta a Fantasy Football Risk in 2026?
Despite the positive health update, some fantasy football analysts remain cautious about LaPorta’s outlook.
Michael Fabiano recently listed the Lions tight end among his potential fantasy bust candidates for the 2026 season, citing declining production since his breakout rookie campaign and concerns about his recovery from back surgery.
While LaPorta is still expected to be selected among the top fantasy tight ends due to the position’s limited depth, questions remain about whether he can return to the elite level that made him one of fantasy football’s biggest stars early in his career.
For the Lions, however, the focus remains on getting their star tight end healthy and back on the field, where he can once again serve as a key weapon in Detroit’s offense.
