Lions’ TE Sam LaPorta Could Make a Shocking Comeback—Will He Return Just in Time for Playoffs?

On Wednesday, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell provided a cautiously optimistic update on tight end Sam LaPorta, acknowledging the player’s progress while also indicating that he is not yet fully healed from the back injury that prematurely ended his 2025 season. LaPorta sustained the injury during Week 10 against the Washington Commanders, leading to surgery that resulted in him being placed on season-ending injured reserve.

In an interview with reporters on New Year’s Eve, Campbell expressed encouragement regarding LaPorta’s recovery, though he stressed that a return during the 2025 season was unrealistic, even if the Lions had advanced to the postseason. “He’s improving, but yet he’s not completely healed,” Campbell noted, emphasizing that the nature of the injury was such that LaPorta could not have played through it under any circumstances.

LaPorta’s expected return is slated for training camp next season. However, back injuries can be unpredictable, leaving fans and the organization alike optimistic yet cautious as they await his return to the field. Prior to his injury, LaPorta was having a standout season, amassing 489 yards on 40 receptions — a career-best 12.2 yards per reception — and securing three touchdowns. His performance led to a remarkable 81.6 percent catch rate on his targets.

Since LaPorta’s absence, the Lions have struggled to find a reliable third receiving option for quarterback Jared Goff. While rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa has shown potential, Campbell and the coaching staff have hesitated to give him a significant share of targets.

“Anytime you start talking about a neck or a back, those can be concerning just because you don’t know exactly what’s going to come out of that,” Campbell remarked. “That’s always going to kind of be back there a little bit until either he is fully healed or he’s not quite there.”

Despite the uncertainty, Campbell remains hopeful about LaPorta's recovery. “I’d like to believe he’s got a lot of time to heal here,” he said, adding that LaPorta is committed to his rehabilitation every day. “It certainly feels better after the surgery than he did right before. So, that’s a positive. It took a lot of stress off that nerve, so we’ll see.”

Through 42 career games, LaPorta has demonstrated his talent, recording 86 catches for 2,104 yards and 20 touchdowns. His rookie season was particularly impressive, with 86 receptions — an NFL record for catches by a rookie tight end — totaling 889 yards and 10 touchdowns. He was subsequently honored with a Pro Bowl nod and a 76.5 overall grade from Pro Football Focus.

As the No. 34 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, LaPorta is set to enter the fourth and final year of his rookie contract in 2026. Campbell’s update suggests that the Lions are optimistic about LaPorta returning to his high-impact self next season, provided his rehabilitation continues on track. For now, fans and teammates alike will be keeping a close eye on his recovery process as the Lions prepare for the future.