Lions TE Sam LaPorta Gets Encouraging Update on Preseason Injury

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta returned to practice on Tuesday following a weeklong absence due to a hip injury. LaPorta participated in both position and team drills during the padded practice, as reported by team insider Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. The tight end missed the final eight games of the 2025 season after undergoing season-ending back surgery for a herniated disc in Week 10. Prior to his injury, LaPorta had appeared in nine games, recording 40 catches for 489 yards and three touchdowns.

Lions reporter Will Burchfield noted that LaPorta appeared to be back to his usual self during the Tuesday session. LaPorta played a deep out route from Jared Goff in 7 on 7s and engaged in several 11 on 11 reps in a physically demanding practice. Burchfield stated that LaPorta looked healthy and like himself. With the assumption that LaPorta feels fine tomorrow, concerns about his availability for Week 1 can reportedly be put to rest.

LaPorta aims to replicate the historic production he achieved in his rookie season in 2024, where he caught 86 passes for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns. In a recent interview, Lions quarterback Jared Goff expressed his intention to ensure that LaPorta receives ample opportunities to contribute in 2026. Goff emphasized that LaPorta is one of the team's top players and will be the primary target.

However, the Lions have a range of skill positions on offense, providing flexibility in terms of the players who will receive the ball and how it will be delivered to them.