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Tag: Sam LaPorta

  • NFL Insiders Include Lions TE Sam LaPorta as Potential Trade Candidate

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    The idea of the Detroit Lions trading Sam LaPorta sounds borderline absurd, but that didn’t stop ESPN insiders Dan Graziano and Ben Solak from including him on their list of the Top 15 trade candidates for the 2026 NFL offseason.

    LaPorta was ranked No. 8 overall on the list and, notably, was the only tight end mentioned. While even the insiders themselves admit a deal is unlikely, LaPorta’s inclusion alone is enough to raise eyebrows across the league.

    Why LaPorta Came Up at All

    According to Graziano, the speculation isn’t really about LaPorta’s talent; it’s about timing and money.

    The Lions are staring down potential extensions for four cornerstone players from the 2023 draft class: LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch. Around the league, there’s quiet curiosity about whether Detroit can realistically get all four deals done.

    That financial puzzle is what landed LaPorta on the list, even if Detroit’s intentions remain crystal clear.

    Graziano was quick to downplay the likelihood of a move, noting that Detroit still views itself firmly in a win-now window, which makes moving an elite young tight end highly improbable.

    The Performance Context

    Solak’s analysis focused more on recent production and long-term projection.

    LaPorta dealt with back surgery last season, finishing with 489 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Those numbers were a noticeable dip from his historic rookie campaign in 2023, when he exploded for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns and immediately established himself as one of the league’s most dangerous tight ends.

    Even with the step back statistically, Solak emphasized that LaPorta remains one of the most dynamic young pass-catching tight ends in football. From a league-wide perspective, a team in need of a high-volume receiving tight end could theoretically see value in trading now rather than risking a massive bidding war if LaPorta were to hit free agency in 2027 and return to peak form.

    The Reality in Detroit

    Let’s be honest: there is almost no scenario where the Lions seriously entertain trading Sam LaPorta.

    He’s a foundational piece of the offense, a perfect fit with Jared Goff, and a matchup nightmare in Ben Johnson’s system. Detroit isn’t rebuilding, retooling, or pinching pennies, they’re chasing Super Bowls.

    Even ESPN’s own projection reflects that reality.

    • Predicted chance of trade: 10%
    • Potential team fits: Chiefs, Ravens, Texans

    Those fits make sense in a vacuum, but not in the context of Detroit’s current trajectory.

    Bottom Line

    Is Sam LaPorta getting traded? Almost certainly not.

    But the fact that league insiders even floated the idea says a lot about how highly he’s valued across the NFL. When a player is young, productive, and under team control, and still draws trade buzz, it’s usually a compliment, not a warning sign.

    Detroit knows exactly what it has in LaPorta. And barring something shocking, he’ll remain a central figure in the Lions’ offense for years to come.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • How Drew Petzing Could Elevate Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta in 2026

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    When the Detroit Lions hired Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator, they weren’t just looking for a play-caller.

    They were looking for someone who sees the game the way quarterbacks do, the way defenses do, and most importantly, the way elite playmakers want their coordinator to see it.

    Petzing’s calling card around the league is simple but dangerous: identify where defenses are vulnerable and relentlessly force them to defend those weak spots. With players like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta already thriving in Detroit, that philosophy could push the Lions offense to another level in 2026.

    A Coordinator Who Sees Holes Others Miss

    One thing that stands out when former players talk about Petzing is how deeply he understands defensive structure. He doesn’t just teach concepts, he teaches why defenses behave the way they do.

    Kirk Cousins, who worked with Petzing in Minnesota, once described how Petzing reframed a coverage Cousins hated seeing.

    “I had a conversation once about a coverage that I don’t like to face that I always said was really, really tough,” Cousins said via the Detroit Free Press. “He said, ‘Kirk, it may be tough but it’s loose.’”

    That phrase stuck because it perfectly captures Petzing’s approach. No coverage is airtight. Every defense leaves space somewhere. The job of the offense is to find it before the ball is snapped and punish it after.

    Petzing’s rise through the coaching ranks wasn’t fast or glamorous, and that’s part of what shaped his perspective. In an exclusive interview with the Detroit Free Press, Petzing explained how close he once came to a completely different career path.

    “All these people, their interest and their desire to do these things is not mine,” Petzing told the Free Press, reflecting on a summer spent in a business program. “I can do it, but I didn’t love it, I didn’t enjoy it… if I can make this happen, I need to make this happen cause this is 100 times better than whatever that was.”

    That clarity shows up in how he coaches. Petzing doesn’t force ideas. He builds around people. Former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson believes that approach will translate seamlessly in Detroit.

    “I think what Drew does is he’s going to put his best players in a chance to showcase what they do,” Johnson said.

    That philosophy aligns perfectly with Detroit’s offensive identity.

    Why Amon-Ra St. Brown Fits This System So Well

    Amon-Ra St. Brown already wins with intelligence, leverage, and toughness. What Petzing brings is a plan to ensure those traits are constantly stressed against the defense’s weakest link.

    St. Brown’s ability to line up anywhere, read coverage on the fly, and adjust routes based on leverage makes him an ideal centerpiece for a coordinator who values matchup control. Instead of simply “feeding” him targets, Petzing’s offense is designed to force defenses into bad choices, whether that means isolating a nickel corner, dragging a linebacker into space, or manipulating safeties with formation and motion.

    That’s how volume turns into efficiency, and efficiency turns into dominance.

    Sam LaPorta Could Become the Ultimate Mismatch

    If there’s one player who stands to benefit most from Petzing’s arrival, it might be Sam LaPorta.

    Petzing has a long history working with tight ends and quarterbacks, and his Arizona offenses leaned heavily on creating favorable tight end looks. Cardinals tight end Trey McBride, who flourished under Petzing, didn’t hide his excitement about what this could mean for Detroit.

    “Obviously, we had a lot of success under him,” McBride said. “So I think he’s a great coordinator and I’m excited to see what he can do with all the weapons there in Detroit.”

    LaPorta’s combination of size, speed, and awareness already makes him difficult to defend. In a system that prioritizes finding coverage stress points, he could become a weekly problem defenses simply can’t solve.

    Jared Goff Is a Natural Fit, Too

    Another important piece of this puzzle is Jared Goff. Petzing’s offenses thrive on clarity, timing, and married concepts, all things that allow Goff to play fast and confident.

    According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Goff plans to spend significant time with Petzing this offseason reshaping the Lions playbook, a familiar process that mirrors what happened when Ben Johnson first took over.

    That collaboration matters. When the quarterback and coordinator see the game through the same lens, matchup advantages show up earlier and mistakes happen less often.

    What This Means for the Lions in 2026

    Detroit doesn’t need a radical overhaul on offense. The pieces are already there.

    What Drew Petzing offers is refinement, intentionality, and a relentless focus on exploiting defensive weaknesses. With Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta at the center of that vision, the Lions offense could become even more precise, more efficient, and more difficult to defend than it has ever been.

    And if Petzing’s reputation holds true, defenses won’t just be reacting.

    They’ll be guessing.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Why Brock Wright and Sam LaPorta Are Taking on Michigan Lawmakers

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    Detroit Lions tight end Brock Wright is using his platform for more than football this offseason.

    As noted by the Detroit Metro Times, Wright and his fiancée, Carley Johnston, are urging Michigan’s top lawmakers to advance legislation that would ban painful and deadly experiments on dogs at taxpayer-funded institutions, including Wayne State University. The effort adds to a growing wave of support from within the Lions organization and across the state for a proposal known as Queenie’s Law.

    According to a release from the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Wright and Johnston recently sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and House Speaker Matt Hall, calling on them to move forward with the bills. The letter noted that fellow Lions tight end Sam LaPorta and his wife, Callie, have already voiced their support, and that “members of the Lions family” believe the legislation is long overdue.

    Queenie’s Law would prohibit public universities and other government-funded bodies in Michigan from conducting research or training on dogs in ways that cause pain or distress. The House version (HB 4254) was introduced by Rep. Joe Aragona, while the Senate version (SB 127) was introduced by Sen. Paul Wojno.

    Supporters argue the legislation is necessary because Michigan taxpayers are helping fund invasive canine experiments that critics say have continued for decades without producing meaningful medical breakthroughs. Wayne State University has been at the center of the controversy, with opponents pointing to publicly funded studies involving heart failure research on dogs.

    Those experiments, according to advocacy groups, have included opening dogs’ chest cavities, implanting devices and catheters into their hearts, and later forcing the animals to run on treadmills while researchers monitor induced heart failure. The dogs ultimately die either during the experiments or from related complications.

    Since 1991, the National Institutes of Health has reportedly spent around $15 million on canine research at Wayne State. Critics say that funding has yielded little benefit compared to modern alternatives now available.

    In their letter, Wright and Johnston emphasized that scientific progress no longer requires harming animals, writing that advanced human-based research methods make such experiments unnecessary.

    The campaign has drawn attention statewide, including billboard displays in Detroit and Lansing featuring a beagle and the message: “$15 Million Wasted on Wayne State’s Dog Experiments? ENOUGH. Pass Queenie’s Law!”

    The issue has also gained support from prominent Michigan natives and national figures, including actor Alison Eastwood, Lily Tomlin, and Ernie Hudson. In addition, the House Regulatory Reform Committee previously advanced HB 4254 with unanimous support, though the bills remain stalled in committee.

    Opponents of the legislation argue that restricting animal research could slow medical innovation. Supporters counter that the scientific community is already moving away from such practices, pointing to the NIH closing its last in-house beagle lab in 2025, the U.S. Navy ending dog and cat research, and a recent federal ban on painful animal testing in defense programs.

    For Wright and Johnston, the push is deeply personal.

    The bills are named after “Queenie,” a stray dog from Gratiot County that supporters say was subjected to months of heart failure experiments before being euthanized at Wayne State. Their message is simple: if dogs are family in Michigan homes, they should not be treated as disposable tools in publicly funded labs.

    And now, some of the Detroit Lions’ most recognizable voices are making sure lawmakers hear it.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • How One Smart Coaching Move Could Unlock Sam LaPorta Even More

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    The Detroit Lions have another important coaching vacancy to fill this offseason, and it’s one that could quietly shape the offense in 2026 and beyond. With Tyler Roehl leaving to take a job at Iowa State, Detroit is now searching for a new tight ends coach at a time when that position has become a central pillar of the scheme.

    Sam LaPorta is already one of the NFL’s premier young tight ends, and the Lions ask a lot from the position: route running, blocking, pass protection, coverage recognition, and red-zone execution. This is not a role for a narrow specialist. It requires a coach who understands the full structure of an offense.

    One candidate who fits that description perfectly is current New York Giants tight ends coach Tim Kelly.

    Why the Tight End Position Matters So Much in Detroit

    Detroit’s offense is built on multiplicity. Tight ends are used as receivers, in-line blockers, motion players, and matchup creators. They have to read defenses the same way the quarterback does and understand how route concepts marry with protections and run fits.

    LaPorta isn’t just running routes; he’s part of the quarterback’s progression and the run game’s geometry. The next tight ends coach must be able to teach the position within the context of the entire offensive system, not in isolation.

    That’s where Kelly’s background becomes extremely attractive.

    Why Tim Kelly Makes So Much Sense

    Kelly brings an unusually broad résumé for a position coach. He has been an NFL offensive coordinator, a quarterbacks coach, a passing game coordinator, and now a tight ends coach. He also played in the league as a defensive tackle with the Eagles, giving him a rare perspective from both sides of the ball.

    His coaching career includes multiple stops as a primary play designer and caller. With the Texans, he rose from offensive quality control to tight ends coach and then to offensive coordinator, later adding quarterback development to his responsibilities. He went on to become passing game coordinator and then offensive coordinator in Tennessee. In New York, he was hired as the Giants’ tight ends coach and, after the mid-season coaching change in 2025, was trusted again with coordinator duties under interim head coach Mike Kafka.

    Very few tight ends coaches in the league can say they have built full offensive game plans, designed weekly install schedules, and called plays on Sundays.

    How Kelly Could Elevate Sam LaPorta and the Entire Offense

    A coach with Kelly’s background doesn’t just teach route depth and hand placement. He teaches why the route exists, what coverage it’s attacking, how it fits the quarterback’s progression, and how the protection is structured behind it.

    For a player like LaPorta, who already wins with intelligence and spatial awareness, that kind of instruction can take his game from Pro Bowl level to true All-Pro dominance. It also benefits the entire offense because tight ends are often the bridge between the run game, the passing game, and the protection scheme.

    Kelly’s experience would allow him to function not only as a position coach, but as an extension of the offensive coordinator in game planning and design.

    Why This Hire Matters for the Lions’ Championship Window

    The Lions are not rebuilding. They believe they are close to contending again in 2026. That means every coaching hire must raise the overall football IQ of the staff and strengthen continuity.

    Promoting someone with coordinator-level experience into a key developmental role gives Detroit both immediate value and future flexibility. It adds another strategic voice in the room, another teacher who can connect the dots between concepts, and another coach who understands what it takes to run an offense at the highest level.

    Tim Kelly’s blend of coordinator experience, quarterback development, tight end coaching, and NFL playing background makes him one of the most logical and intriguing candidates to replace Tyler Roehl.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Sam LaPorta Opens Up: The Real Reason His 2025 Season Suddenly Ended

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    Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta met with reporters as the team wrapped up postseason media availability, and for the first time, he opened up about the back injury that cut his 2025 season short, and why surgery ultimately became unavoidable.

    LaPorta revealed that the injury actually dates back to Detroit’s matchup against the Washington Commanders, when a series of hits finally caught up to him.

    “There were some accumulated falls and hits that I took in the weeks leading up to that game… and then of course, it happened in the Commanders game. I fully herniated the disc,” he said as quoted by Lions OnSI.

    At first, LaPorta believed he might only miss a couple of weeks. But as the pain lingered — and worsened — his mindset shifted from hopeful to realistic. Instead of returning, the former second-round pick and the Lions medical staff agreed surgery was the safest path, especially given how early he is in his career.

    “I was gimpy, walking around like an 80-year-old man… Backs aren’t anything to mess with, and I want to have a long, healthy career,” LaPorta said.

    Before the injury, LaPorta was once again one of Detroit’s most reliable offensive weapons. Through nine games in 2025, the Pro Bowl tight end recorded 49 receptions for 480 yards and 3 touchdowns, pushing his three-year totals to 252 catches, 2,104 yards, and 20 touchdowns, incredible production for such a young player.

    Now six weeks removed from surgery, LaPorta says he’s entering the next stage of rehab and feeling optimistic about his timeline.

    Dan Campbell has already hinted that the goal is to have LaPorta back for OTAs, and the tight end echoed that — with one important caveat.

    “Yeah, that is the plan… Hopefully by OTAs I am up running around. But I really got to get this back right before I’m out there taking those hits.”

    The time away from the field has been unfamiliar territory. LaPorta admitted he’s barely missed time at any level of his sports career, making this stretch especially tough to process.

    “To have only played nine games this season, I was clearly disappointed. It was hard to sit on the couch and watch my teammates play without me.”

    Still, don’t expect LaPorta to change who he is as a player. The Lions star said he isn’t planning to alter his physical, aggressive style of football, because that edge is part of what makes him who he is.

    “You just have to assume you’ll make it through the game healthy… Freak accidents happen. You train and prepare, and sometimes things just happen.”

    If rehab stays on track, LaPorta should be back in the mix for Detroit’s 2026 season, and given what he’s already proven in just three years, the Lions will be thrilled to have No. 87 back in the huddle.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Massive Salary Boosts Coming for Two Detroit Lions Standouts

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    The Detroit Lions’ 2025 season didn’t end the way anyone hoped, and a big part of that story comes down to injuries at two critical positions. On defense, Brian Branch’s torn Achilles was a gut punch to an already-thin secondary. On offense, losing Sam LaPorta took away one of Jared Goff’s most reliable weapons and rhythm-setters in the passing game.

    The good news? Both players are expected to return in 2026, and when they do, A to Z Sports has pointed out that they’ll be coming back to significant salary bumps thanks to the NFL’s Proven Performance Escalator system.

    And honestly…they earned every penny.

    What is the Proven Performance Escalator?

    If you’re not familiar, the PPE is a contract mechanism designed to reward non-first-round draft picks who outperform expectations early in their careers. There are three tiers, and each level bumps a player’s fourth-year salary if they meet certain playing-time or performance milestones.

    Here’s how it breaks down:

    • Level 1: Player must log 60% of snaps in two of their first three seasons (for second-rounders).
    • Level 2: Player must play at least 55% of snaps in all three seasons.
    • Level 3: The big one — the player must make the Pro Bowl on the original ballot within their first three years.

    Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch didn’t just check boxes.

    They smashed the requirements.

    Both players earned Level 3 escalators, the highest tier, meaning their 2026 base salaries will jump to match the projected value of a second-round restricted free-agent tender, plus their original base pay.

    That tender number for 2026 is projected at $5,658,000.

    What Their New Salaries Look Like

    Here’s how those raises shape up heading into 2026:

    Player Original 2026 Base Salary PPE Raise Added Projected New Base Salary
    Brian Branch $1,743,872 +$5,658,000 $7,401,872
    Sam LaPorta $1,948,819 +$5,658,000 $7,606,819

    Two young stars.

    Two massive boosts.

    Two great examples of Brad Holmes’ draft success coming full circle.

    Why This Matters for Detroit

    Yes, these raises tighten the Lions’ cap flexibility a bit.

    But this is the right kind of problem to have.

    It means:

    • You drafted elite talent.
    • Those players became core pieces almost immediately.
    • They earned recognition across the league, not just in Detroit.

    LaPorta quickly established himself as one of the best tight ends in football, and Branch proved he’s a tone-setter on defense with versatility, instincts, and toughness.

    Paying great young players isn’t a burden.

    It’s a sign your program is working.

    The Bottom Line

    The Lions didn’t get the season they hoped for in 2025. But Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch remain two pillars of the roster, and the fact that both hit Level 3 escalators is a testament to their talent, development, and impact.

    When they’re healthy and back on the field in 2026?

    Detroit isn’t just getting two players back.

    They’re getting back two of the heartbeat leaders of this roster, now paid like it.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Sam LaPorta Injury Update: Dan Campbell Explains Why Timeline Remains Cautious

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    As the Detroit Lions prepare for their final game of the season, head coach Dan Campbell offered an important update on tight end Sam LaPorta’s recovery and long-term outlook, while also speaking candidly about how injuries in the tight end room have impacted the offense down the stretch.

    “He’s getting better,” Campbell said. “It wouldn’t have been one of those situations where, if we made the playoffs, he’d have had a chance to play — no. But I feel like next year isn’t off the table early in the year. You’d like to believe we’d get him for training camp — but you’re talking about a back. He’s improving, but he’s not completely healed.”

    Campbell also acknowledged the uncertainty that naturally comes with injuries to areas like the neck and back.

    “Anytime you’re talking about a neck or a back — those things can be concerning, because you don’t know exactly what’s going to come out of it,” he said. “How do they recover? That’s always kind of going to be back there until he’s either fully healed or he’s not quite there.”

    Still, the update wasn’t without optimism.

    “I’d like to believe he’ll have a lot of time to heal,” Campbell added. “He’s rehabbing every day. He feels better after the surgery than he did before — that’s a positive. It took a lot of stress off that nerve. We’ll see.”

    Tight End Injuries Have Reshaped Detroit’s Offense

    Beyond LaPorta’s situation, the Lions have been forced to adjust after multiple injuries at tight end, a position Campbell emphasized is central to Detroit’s offensive identity.

    “Tight ends are a big part of what we do, certainly in the run game, but the pass game as well,” he explained. “So when you lose your top two guys, it becomes harder for sure. It’s affected us.”

    With LaPorta and Brock Wright unavailable at times this season, Detroit has leaned heavily on veteran depth.

    “It’s good to get Zylstra back,” Campbell said. “He’s a pro, he’s a vet, he can do a lot of jobs. And then Ferg — he’s got some versatility too. It’s been good to have those two guys.”

    Bold Outlook for 2026: Cautious Optimism Around LaPorta’s Return

    Campbell’s comments point to a recovery path that is encouraging but measured. The organization remains hopeful LaPorta will be available early next season, potentially by training camp, but the team is prioritizing long-term stability over rushing his return.

    For now, Detroit will continue relying on experience and versatility in the tight end group while LaPorta focuses on the most important objective:

    Time, patience, and full healing.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Make Unfortunate Announcement Regarding Sam LaPorta

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    The Detroit Lions made it official on Saturday afternoon, placing Sam LaPorta on injured reserve and ruling the standout tight end out for at least the next four games. LaPorta, who was already declared out for Sunday night’s matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, is dealing with a back injury that has kept him off the practice field all week.

    With the move, the earliest LaPorta could return is Week 15.

    The news leaves the Lions with just Brock Wright and Ross Dwelley at tight end on the active roster heading into a massive primetime showdown in Philadelphia.

    It wasn’t the only roster shakeup of the day. The Lions also announced the release of veteran defensive lineman Pat O’Connor, while signing offensive lineman Michael Niese to the 53-man roster. Additionally, wide receivers Tom Kennedy and Jackson Meeks have been elevated from the practice squad for Sunday’s game.

    LaPorta’s absence creates a significant void in Detroit’s offense, but the Lions will look to patch things together as they travel to face the defending Super Bowl champions on Sunday Night Football.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Final Week 11 Injury Report Could Spell Trouble

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    The Detroit Lions have released their final Week 11 injury report ahead of Sunday Night Football in Philadelphia, and it is… not ideal. Detroit officially ruled out three starters and listed a long line of contributors as questionable as they prepare to face the defending champion Eagles in one of the toughest environments in football.

    Three players have already been ruled out for the matchup: Terrion Arnold (concussion), Kerby Joseph (knee), and Sam LaPorta (back). All three missed practice throughout the week, and the team confirmed on Friday that none will be available under the bright lights in Philly. Josh Paschal (back) was also ruled out.

    Detroit also enters Sunday with ten players listed as questionable, including several who logged multiple limited sessions but weren’t cleared going into the weekend. Those players are Marcus Davenport (shoulder), Taylor Decker (shoulder/rest), Miles Frazier (knee), D.J. Reed (hamstring), Amik Robertson (hamstring), Malcolm Rodriguez (knee), Jacob Saylors (back), Penei Sewell (ankle), Sione Vaki (ankle), and Brock Wright (ankle).

    Here is the full injury report released by the team:

    Player Injury Status
    Terrion Arnold Concussion Out
    Kerby Joseph Knee Out
    Sam LaPorta Back Out
    Josh Paschal Back Out
    Marcus Davenport Shoulder Questionable
    Taylor Decker Shoulder/Rest Questionable
    Miles Frazier Knee Questionable
    D.J. Reed Hamstring Questionable
    Amik Robertson Hamstring Questionable
    Malcolm Rodriguez Knee Questionable
    Jacob Saylors Back Questionable
    Penei Sewell Ankle Questionable
    Sione Vaki Ankle Questionable
    Brock Wright Ankle Questionable

    As the Lions get ready for a primetime clash against Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, and the 7-2 Eagles, this final report paints a clear picture: Detroit is heading into Week 11 banged up in a big way. Whether they can overcome the injuries and pull off a statement win will be the major storyline as Sunday night approaches.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Injury Report: 3 Starters in Jeopardy of Missing Week 11 vs. Eagles

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    The Detroit Lions released their updated Thursday injury report ahead of Sunday night’s matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Three players, Terrion Arnold, Kerby Joseph, and Sam LaPorta, remained non-participants for the second straight day.

    Detroit Lions Week 11 Injury Report (Thursday)

    Player Position Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game Status
    Terrion Arnold CB concussion NP NP
    Kerby Joseph S knee NP NP
    Sam LaPorta TE back NP NP
    Pat O’Connor DL knee LP NP
    Marcus Davenport EDGE shoulder LP LP
    Taylor Decker T shoulder LP LP
    Miles Frazier G knee LP LP
    Josh Paschal EDGE back LP LP
    D.J. Reed CB hamstring LP LP
    Amik Robertson CB hamstring — LP
    Jacob Saylors RB back LP LP
    Penei Sewell T ankle NP LP
    Sione Vaki RB ankle NP LP
    Brock Wright TE ankle NP LP
    Graham Glasgow C back LP FP
    Aidan Hutchinson EDGE elbow NP FP
    Malcolm Rodriguez LB knee FP FP

    The Bottom Line

    The Lions are closing in on a massive Week 11 showdown with the Eagles, and the availability of Terrion Arnold, Kerby Joseph, and Sam LaPorta remains the biggest storyline to watch. Their continued absence could shape Sunday night’s matchup, and all eyes will be on Friday’s final injury report to see whether Detroit will be at full strength when they take the field in Philadelphia.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Injury Roller Coaster: Stars Out, Stars In as Week 11 Showdown Looms

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    The Detroit Lions hit the practice field again on Wednesday as they begin full prep for their massive Week 11 showdown with the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. And while there was plenty of good news, there were also a few eyebrow-raising absences that fans will be watching closely throughout the week.

    According to a report from Kory Woods, several key players were not visible during the open portion of practice, including multiple starters on both sides of the ball.

    Let’s break it all down.

    Several Key Lions Missing From Wednesday’s Practice

    The Lions are heading into their biggest game of the season, and they’re doing it while juggling some significant injuries.

    Sources say the following players were not spotted at today’s session:

    • Sam LaPorta (back)
    • Terrion Arnold (concussion)
    • Kerby Joseph (knee)
    • Pat O’Connor (knee)

    None of these are small names, but two in particular jump off the page.

    LaPorta, who has taken a massive leap forward in Dan Campbell’s run-heavy, smash-mouth version of the offense, has been battling a back issue. Backs can be touchy, and the Lions aren’t taking chances with one of the best two-way tight ends in the league.

    Arnold, meanwhile, remains in concussion protocol. He’s been a game-changer in Year 2 and is coming off his best stretch of football before the injury. With the Eagles on deck, the Lions would love to have him available.

    Kerby Joseph’s knee injury is also one to monitor closely. He and Brian Branch have become one of the most electric safety duos in football, and losing Joseph for a primetime game would be a massive defensive shake-up.

    Aidan Hutchinson Returns — And He Says He’s Ready

    Here’s the good news: Aidan Hutchinson was back.

    The Lions’ star edge rusher missed Tuesday’s session with an elbow injury, but he returned today, backing up everything he said when speaking to reporters earlier this week.

    On Wednesday, Hutchinson brushed off any concern and made it clear he’s playing Sunday night.

    “We’ll be good though. Just a little bump in the road but we’re good.”
    “Upper body… I don’t even know,” he joked.
    And when asked if he was worried about missing the game:
    “Not at all.”

    That’s the kind of energy Lions fans needed going into a battle with Jalen Hurts, and the kind of energy this entire roster feeds off.

    More Positive News: Multiple Lions Return to Action

    Along with Hutchinson, three more familiar faces were back on the practice field:

    • Penei Sewell (ankle)
    • Brock Wright (ankle)
    • Sione Vaki (ankle)

    Sewell’s return is massive. He’s the heartbeat of the offensive line and one of the most dominant tackles in football. With Philadelphia’s pass rush looming, having Sewell healthy again is a game-changer.

    Wright’s return gives Detroit a little more stability at tight end while LaPorta nurses his back.

    And Vaki, one of the Lions’ most Swiss-army-knife weapons, continues progressing toward a full workload.

    This week feels like a roller coaster, but the Lions got back several starters who are critical to their identity.

    Lions 2025 offensive line depth chart Lions Top 25 Under 25 2025 Penei Sewell overrated

    The Big Picture

    The Lions are 6-3.
    The Eagles are 7-2.
    And everyone knows what’s at stake this week.

    Detroit has been fighting through injuries all season, and somehow, Dan Campbell’s squad keeps finding ways to stabilize, reload, and punch back harder.

    Missing LaPorta or Arnold would hurt… but getting Hutchinson and Sewell back for a primetime game in Philly?
    That’s huge.

    Keep an eye on Thursday and Friday’s reports. Those will tell us everything.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Dan Campbell Reveals Why Sam LaPorta’s True Impact Doesn’t Show Up in the Stats

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    If you’re looking at Detroit Lions TE Sam LaPorta’s stat line this season and thinking he’s taken a step back, Dan Campbell wants you to look again.

    Sure, the box scores don’t scream “Pro Bowl” right now, but Campbell insists the second-year tight end is making a bigger impact than ever, just in ways that don’t show up in your fantasy feed.

    The Hidden Value in LaPorta’s Game

    On 97.1 The Ticket, Campbell couldn’t wait to mention LaPorta when asked which Lions have shown the most growth this season.

    “There’s a number of guys that have taken big steps. One of the guys, the first one I think of is Sam LaPorta,” Campbell said as quoted by PFT. “I think Sam has taken another step forward. Sometimes what not everybody sees about Sam, he’s got to do everything. He’s got to pass protect, he’s got to run block and certainly as a receiver he’s got value. The guy can do it all. Where he’s taken his biggest jump is in the run game and pass protection, and continues to be a threat in the pass game. I love where he’s at right now.”

    That’s classic Campbell, praising the grinder who embraces the dirty work.

    Stats Don’t Tell the Full Story

    Let’s put the numbers in perspective.

    • 2023 (Rookie): 86 catches, 889 yards, 10 TDs
    • 2024: 60 catches, 726 yards, 7 TDs
    • 2025 (So far): 29 catches, 339 yards, 2 TDs

    On paper, that’s a decline. But according to Campbell, what LaPorta’s doing without the ball is every bit as valuable as what he does with it.

    LaPorta is logging a higher percentage of offensive snaps than ever before. That’s because he’s now trusted as a full-service tight end, not just a pass-catching threat, but a guy who can seal the edge, chip elite pass rushers, and hold up in protection when the Lions need an extra blocker.

    In Campbell’s offense, built around Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, and a bully-ball offensive line, that versatility is pure gold.

    Becoming the Complete Tight End

    It’s easy to forget LaPorta was already one of the most productive rookie tight ends in NFL history. But as Campbell keeps reminding everyone, this team values more than highlight reels.

    LaPorta has learned to thrive in the trenches, a place where few tight ends his age excel. Campbell knows it, and you can hear the pride in his voice when he talks about it.

    This is the same coach who once spent ten hours sitting through an offensive line clinic just to understand the nuances of blocking. So when Dan Campbell says your blocking is elite, you can bet it’s not lip service.

    Sam LaPorta fewer targets Sam LaPorta pays off bet

    The Bottom Line

    LaPorta’s stat sheet might not be exploding, but his impact is. His blocking has helped the Lions’ run game rank among the NFL’s best, and his ability to protect Jared Goff has been quietly vital to Detroit’s success.

    And if you know anything about Campbell, you know he values players who make the tough plays that don’t show up in the box score.

    So yeah, fantasy owners might grumble. But inside Allen Park, Sam LaPorta’s stock has never been higher.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Pro Football Focus Grades Released for Week 5 Win vs. Bengals

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    The Detroit Lions continued their red-hot start to the 2025 season with a 37–24 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, marking their fourth straight win. The latest Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades highlight which players stood out and which struggled in another dominant team performance.

    Top 5 Offensive Grades

    Rank Player Position Overall Grade
    1 Christian Mahogany LG 85.9
    2 Amon-Ra St. Brown WR 85.6
    3 Penei Sewell RT 84.4
    4 Sam LaPorta TE 82.8
    5 Jahmyr Gibbs HB 76.7

    Top 5 Defensive Grades

    Rank Player Position Overall Grade
    1 Jack Campbell MLB 92.8
    2 Aidan Hutchinson DE 91.6
    3 Al-Quadin Muhammad RE 75.5
    4 Alex Anzalone WLB 74.3
    5 Roy Lopez DT 74.0

    Bottom 5 Offensive Grades

    Rank Player Position Overall Grade
    1 Giovanni Manu LT 42.2
    2 Brock Wright TE 47.8
    3 Ross Dwelley TE 51.3
    4 Jameson Williams WR 56.7
    5 Tate Ratledge RG 62.4

    Bottom 5 Defensive Grades

    Rank Player Position Overall Grade
    1 Trevor Nowaske ROLB 53.3
    2 Tyler Lacy DE 57.6
    3 Terrion Arnold CB 58.2
    4 Derrick Barnes WLB 60.5
    5 DJ Reader DT 62.1

    The Big Picture

    Detroit’s formula for success remains the same: physical dominance on both sides of the line of scrimmage. Jack Campbell and Aidan Hutchinson continue to anchor the defense, while Penei Sewell and Amon-Ra St. Brown lead a balanced, efficient offense. The Lions now sit at 4–1, with their sights set firmly on the top of the NFC.

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    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Dan Campbell Mic’d Up In Detroit Lions Latest ‘Sights and Sounds’ Video

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    The Detroit Lions gave fans another inside look at their sideline energy with the release of their latest “Sights and Sounds” video from Sunday’s 34-10 win over the Cleveland Browns.

    This week’s edition features none other than head coach Dan Campbell, who was mic’d up throughout the game. True to form, Campbell delivered the fiery passion and raw emotion that has defined his tenure in Detroit. From hyping up his players before key drives to celebrating defensive stops, the video captures exactly why his players love playing for him.

    Also featured was tight end Sam LaPorta, who brought his usual mix of intensity and humor to the sideline. LaPorta, coming off another solid outing, gave fans a glimpse of the chemistry and energy that’s helped fuel Detroit’s 3-1 start to the season.

    The Lions’ weekly “Sights and Sounds” has become must-watch content for fans who want to see more than just highlights, they want to feel the heart of this team. And with Campbell wired up, you can bet fans will be hitting replay all week.

    Kickoff reminder: Detroit is back in action Sunday when they travel to face the Cincinnati Bengals at 4:25 p.m. ET.

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Sam LaPorta Confident Lions Can Flip the Script Against Ravens

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    The Detroit Lions don’t need a history lesson on what happened the last time they visited Baltimore. It was ugly. It was lopsided. And it’s still stuck in the minds of players like tight end Sam LaPorta.

    For LaPorta, now one of the team’s most reliable playmakers, that afternoon is motivation, not baggage.

    “We didn’t play our style of football that day,” LaPorta said as quoted by Lions OnSI. “Two quick three-and-outs, next thing you know it’s 21-0. We were chasing the game instead of controlling it. That’s not who we are now.”

    A Different Offense, A Different Mentality

    Fast forward to 2025, and the Lions’ offense has evolved. With Jared Goff playing some of the best football of his career, Amon-Ra St. Brown cemented as one of the league’s premier receivers, and young contributors like Isaac TeSlaa making highlight-reel plays, Detroit is far better equipped to handle the chaos Baltimore creates.

    LaPorta isn’t shy about what needs to change: start fast and stay calm.

    “We can’t let the moment get too big,” LaPorta said. “Back then, we were frantic. Now, even if we take a punch early, we know how to respond. We’ve got too much talent and too much trust in each other to panic.”

    Proof It Can Be Done

    If the Ravens looked invincible in 2023, they’ve already shown cracks this season. In Week 1, the Buffalo Bills stormed back late to hand Baltimore a shocking loss despite Lamar Jackson’s hot start.

    LaPorta believes that blueprint is encouraging.

    “You saw what Buffalo did — they put up points fast against one of the toughest defenses out there,” LaPorta said. “That just shows it can be done. And we’ve got the guys to do it.”

    Why This Rematch Matters

    For the Lions, this Monday Night Football clash isn’t just about Week 3, it’s about showing the league that Detroit is no longer the team that crumbled two years ago. Dan Campbell’s squad has built its identity on resilience, and LaPorta embodies that mindset.

    “It’s a chance to prove how far we’ve come,” he said. “We’re not the same team we were in 2023. We’re smarter, stronger, and ready for whatever they throw at us.”

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    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions pull off INSANE flea flicker for long Sam LaPorta TD vs. Cowboys [Video]

    Detroit Lions pull off INSANE flea flicker for long Sam LaPorta TD vs. Cowboys [Video]

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    The Detroit Lions continue to showcase their creativity on offense. Already holding a 10-3 lead in the second quarter, the Lions dialed up what will be remembered as one of the best trick plays of the season.

    In an unexpected move, the Lions executed an INSANE flea flicker that caught the Dallas Cowboys defense completely off guard. Tight end Sam LaPorta was the beneficiary, as he found himself wide open down the field for a long touchdown.

    Check out the incredible play below, which has Lions fans buzzing as they look to extend their lead against the Cowboys!

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    W.G. Brady

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  • Detroit Lions’ Practice Takes a Wild Turn—Terrion Arnold’s Injury Details

    Detroit Lions’ Practice Takes a Wild Turn—Terrion Arnold’s Injury Details

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    In the latest chapter of the Detroit Lions’ joint practice saga, cornerback Terrion Arnold found himself in the not-so-great position of getting steamrolled by Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas. It happened during a run play late in today’s practice at the Giants’ swanky New York facility, and it’s safe to say Thomas didn’t exactly play the role of a friendly neighborhood blocker.

    The Giants were busy practicing their red zone plays when they decided to go left, and Thomas, channeling his inner bulldozer, managed to flatten Arnold like a pancake. As a result, Arnold is now undergoing evaluation for a concussion. Hopefully, he’ll bounce back as swiftly as Thomas moved.

    Meanwhile, in the realm of health updates that don’t involve getting run over, Lions tight end Sam LaPorta was conspicuously absent from today’s practice. No, he wasn’t off on a secret mission—just dealing with a minor issue. Head coach Dan Campbell kept mum about the specifics but reassured fans that LaPorta’s return is on the horizon.

    And then there’s safety Brian Branch, who showed up to practice but decided to sit out the contact drills. No, he wasn’t trying to avoid any roughhousing—he’s just taking it easy and should be back to hitting soon.

    So, while the Detroit Lions are dealing with a few bumps and bruises, it looks like they’re making sure their players don’t get too banged up before the real games begin.

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    Amy Price

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