Sam LaPorta went on injured reserve on November 15 with a serious back injury. The tight end, a key offensive weapon, was expected to miss at least four games. But now, he could be gone for a lot longer, Lions coach Dan Campbell confirmed.

“Dan Campbell confirms Lions TE Sam LaPorta had a surgery on his back, chances of him returning this year are ‘very, very slim’,” NFL writer Dave Birkett recently reported.

Before the injury, LaPorta was one of Detroit’s best receivers with 40 receptions, 489 yards, and three touchdowns. The team feels his absence, especially his blocking and clutch catches. Detroit will rely on backups while hoping for a late-season miracle, but for now, the outlook is bleak for LaPorta this season.

See Full Page