For the Detroit Lions and their die-hard fans, the timing couldn’t be worse — starting tight end Sam LaPorta has missed yet another practice as he battles a back injury, and the pressure is mounting. With a crucial Week 11 primetime showdown against the Philadelphia Eagles looming, LaPorta’s absence from Thursday’s session is sending red flags across Motown.
LaPorta, who leads Detroit’s tight end room in targets, yards, and efficiency, remains off the field for a second consecutive practice. According to reports, he didn’t participate in Thursday’s workout and still hasn’t seen individual or group drills this week. With Week 11 just days away, that kind of inactivity usually indicates a deeper issue.
To make matters worse, the Lions recently added veteran tight end Anthony Firkser to the practice squad — a move that sources believe may signal Detroit is preparing for the possibility that LaPorta isn’t 100% for Sunday night.
Here’s what this means moving forward:
✅ Immediate Concern: Losing LaPorta would severely weaken the Lions’ pass-catching arsenal, especially in the red zone and third-down situations.
⚠️ Depth Check: Backup options like Brock Wright and Ross Dwelley have shown flashes, but none offer the consistency or role LaPorta brings.
🔍 Game Plan Shift: If LaPorta can’t go or is limited, expect Detroit to lean more heavily on their receivers and backs — and for opposing defenses to adjust accordingly.
For fans and fantasy managers alike, this isn’t just an injury update — it’s a potential game-changer. With so much on the line, the next 48 hours may be the difference between “full strength Lions” and a squad scrambling to adjust.
Sam LaPorta’s Thursday Absence Sparks Major Concern for Lions’ Tight End
