By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions headed into Week 11 with confidence, momentum, and one of the league’s top offenses. But just a day before their massive primetime battle against the Philadelphia Eagles, everything got a little more complicated. And by complicated, we mean gut-punch territory.
A Major Blow at the Worst Time
The Lions officially placed All-Pro tight end Sam LaPorta on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the next four games. For an offense ranked No. 6 in the NFL, losing a key playmaker on the eve of a crucial stretch is about as tough as it gets.
LaPorta wasn’t just good—he was elite. He ranks fifth among all tight ends in receiving yards (489), ninth in receptions (40), and 13th in touchdowns (three). He trails only Amon-Ra St. Brown in most major receiving categories on the team and has been a reliable weapon all season long.
Now? Detroit will head into matchups on “Sunday Night Football,” Thanksgiving Day vs. the Packers, and a “Thursday Night Football” showdown with the Cowboys without one of their biggest offensive threats.
When Could LaPorta Return?
The earliest fans might see LaPorta back on the field is Week 15 against the Los Angeles Rams. Until then, the Lions will have to find creative ways to keep their passing attack flowing against some high-stakes opponents.
Next Man Up: Wright & Zylstra Step In
With LaPorta sidelined, Detroit will rely heavily on backup tight end Brock Wright. He’s the only other TE on the roster who has caught a pass this season, grabbing nine catches on 11 targets for 71 yards and two touchdowns across nine appearances.
The Lions are also expected to elevate Shane Zylstra from the practice squad. Over three seasons in Detroit, Zylstra has logged 15 receptions, 116 yards, and four touchdowns—solid depth, but nowhere near LaPorta’s production.
How Will the Lions Adjust?
Detroit’s offense has never lacked creativity under Dan Campbell and Ben Johnson, but losing a top-tier tight end can change the rhythm of everything. LaPorta has been a matchup nightmare, a security blanket, a chain-mover, and a red-zone weapon all in one.
The Lions still have firepower. They still have identity. But there’s no denying one thing:
This one hurts.