By Moses Joshua 
Sam LaPorta’s potential return from injury offers hope for a revitalized Lions offense as the playoff race heats up.
LaPorta on Injured Reserve
The Detroit Lions will be without tight end Sam LaPorta for the next few games, but there’s optimism that the dynamic pass-catcher could return for the season’s final stretch. The team placed LaPorta on injured reserve following a back injury, sidelining him for Sunday’s loss to the Philadelphia Eagles and the next three matchups.
While Lions head coach Dan Campbell didn’t confirm a specific comeback date, he offered encouraging words about LaPorta’s status. “Obviously enough to where we’re talking about four weeks here,” Campbell said. “Obviously, we’re gonna hope that this thing calms down, and after those four games we can get him back. We’re really just taking this day-to-day, week-to-week.”
A Key Offensive Weapon
LaPorta has quickly become a favorite target of quarterback Jared Goff since being drafted in the second round in 2023. In 42 games with Detroit, he has amassed 186 receptions for 2,104 yards and 20 touchdowns, including 40 catches for 489 yards and three scores this season. His production makes him the team’s No. 2 pass-catcher behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, underscoring the impact of his absence.
The Lions’ offensive struggles were apparent without him. In Sunday’s defeat, Detroit averaged just 3.5 yards per carry, while Goff faced 19 pressures from Philadelphia’s defensive front. The offense’s rhythm suffered, highlighting LaPorta’s importance in both the passing and running games.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Hopes and Offensive Adjustments
Detroit sits at 6-4 after four losses, one game behind the Chicago Bears in the NFC North. While the playoff picture has tightened, the Lions have shown resilience, bouncing back from early-season defeats with victories.
Campbell has taken on play-calling responsibilities, acknowledging both the offense’s struggles and his role in them. “Do you take a shot, or do you just get the first,” he said. “If you are going to get the first, why do that? Why not run it one more time or maybe go the shot or a more completion play. Maybe it’s a three-step. Those are the little things, man, you learn from as you go, that I think could have been a lot better. There’s better and those are the things that I’ve got to be better at and I know I can be better at and I kick myself a little bit.”
Despite the setbacks, Campbell remains confident in his offensive line and believes that LaPorta’s eventual return could provide a much-needed boost. If healthy, the tight end’s presence may help restore balance to a unit that has struggled to maintain consistency, giving the Lions a better shot at finishing the season strong.