Pro Football Rumors
Sam LaPorta is expected to be ready for training camp. The Lions tight end was fully medically cleared earlier this month and should be a participant when Detroit’s training camp opens in August, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. While LaPorta’s “level of involvement” is uncertain, Tim Twentyman of the team’s website expects the starter “to be full go.”
[RELATED: Latest On Lions’ Injuries: Branch, LaPorta, Arnold]
LaPorta underwent surgery to repair the herniated disc in his back in November, ending his 2025 campaign prematurely. While the tight end reportedly took part in “some walk-through (and) jog-through’ portions” of spring practices, there was some questions about his availability ahead of training camp. It sounds like the organization is more than happy with his progress, and the Lions can expect their TE1 to be ready to go.
The 2023 second-round pick out of Iowa burst onto the scene as a rookie, when he hauled in 86 catches for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns en route to an All-Pro nod. His numbers took a slight step back in 2025, although he still managed to compile 60 catches for 726 yards and seven scores.
LaPorta’s per-game numbers improved in 2026. Through nine games, the tight end hauled in 40 catches for 489 yards and three touchdowns. He ultimately finished the campaign with career-highs in success rate (69.4), catch percentage (81.6), and yards per game (54.3).
The Lions are set to return top backup Brock Wright, although the veteran’s 2025 campaign was also cut short thanks to a neck injury. The organization brought in additional reinforcement in Tyler Conklin, and the veteran trio will be expected to lead the depth chart in 2026.
