By Sunday 
Detroit woke up to a gut-punch on Friday, and it came straight from Dan Campbell’s mouth. The Lions head coach confirmed what fans were dreading: Sam LaPorta is likely done for the season following back surgery. And Campbell didn’t sugarcoat it one bit — “Losing Sam hurts.”
A Core Piece Gone at the Worst Time
LaPorta has been more than just a tight end for Detroit — he’s been a consistent engine in their passing game.
With 40 receptions, 489 yards, and three touchdowns this season alone, his absence was felt immediately in last week’s sluggish 16-9 loss to the Eagles.
And when you look at his full body of work — 186 catches for 2,104 yards and 20 touchdowns in just two and a half seasons — it’s no wonder Campbell’s frustration slipped through.
The Lions Must Adjust — Fast
Despite the blow, Campbell didn’t leave fans in despair. In classic Campbell style, he fired off the rally cry:
“We’ll adjust, we’ll adapt. We’ve got plenty of weapons here, and our O-line’s going to do a hell of a job.”
Now the spotlight swings to Brock Wright, the steady veteran who’s started games every year since joining the Lions. Wright’s no stranger to responsibility, but stepping in for a second-team All-Pro is no small task.
He has 11 catches for 79 yards and two touchdowns this season, but Detroit may need production beyond his usual role as they gear up to host the struggling 2-9 New York Giants this Sunday.
A Long-Term Positive — but a Short-Term Problem
There is a silver lining: Campbell says the surgery “went really well” in the long run. That’s huge for Detroit’s future. LaPorta was a second-round steal from Iowa, a breakout rookie, and a key pillar moving forward.
But for now?
It’s next man up, and Detroit must find a way to keep their momentum at 6-4 without one of their most reliable offensive weapons.