Sam LaPorta injury update: Lions offer uncertain timeline for TE’s 2026 return

The Detroit Lions are entering the 2026 offseason with more questions than answers surrounding one of their most important offensive pieces. Tight end Sam LaPorta, who saw his 2025 season cut short by a back injury, remains on an uncertain recovery path after undergoing surgery midway through the year.

Sam LaPorta injury

Speaking to reporters this week, Dan Campbell made it clear that while progress has been made, the situation is far from straightforward. The Lions coach said the team is hopeful LaPorta could be ready by training camp, but stopped well short of offering any guarantees.

Back injuries, especially those involving nerve issues, are notoriously unpredictable. Campbell acknowledged as much, noting that while the surgery has relieved pressure and improved LaPorta’s day-to-day comfort, the tight end is “not completely healed” yet.

For Detroit, that uncertainty is the central concern heading into 2026.

Why the injury complicates Detroit’s offseason plans

LaPorta’s injury doesn’t just affect the medical report, it directly impacts roster planning. The 24-year-old is set to enter the final year of his rookie contract in 2026, a season that was expected to be a launching pad toward a long-term extension.Before the injury, LaPorta had established himself as one of the league’s most productive tight ends, emerging as a reliable safety valve and red-zone threat for Jared Goff.

His absence late in the season exposed how thin Detroit’s depth is at the position, with limited proven options behind him.

The Lions now face a tricky balance. They must protect a cornerstone player’s long-term health while also preparing for the possibility that LaPorta may not be ready when the 2026 season opens or may need careful workload management if he is.At this stage, training camp remains the optimistic target rather than a firm expectation.

Any setbacks during rehab could push LaPorta’s return closer to the regular season, or even beyond. Campbell emphasized that the team will prioritize full recovery over rushing him back, especially given the sensitive nature of back injuries.From a performance standpoint, LaPorta’s past production suggests he can quickly reassert himself once healthy. But from a business perspective, Detroit will likely want to see him complete a largely healthy season before committing major money.For the Detroit Lions, LaPorta’s status looms large over the offseason. His rehab progress could influence free agency decisions, draft strategy, and even early-season offensive planning.Also Read: Joe Burrow comments on facing Myles Garrett as Browns star nears sack record