Detroit, MI. The Detroit Lions received devastating news on Friday. Head coach Dan Campbell revealed that All-Pro tight end Sam LaPorta underwent a procedure for his back injury this week. The recovery timeline makes it almost impossible for him to return this season.
Campbell explained the severity of the situation. “Sam did have a procedure, and he’s going to be out for a while, a while,” he said. “I think we would be fortunate to have a chance to get him back for the rest of the season at some point. I think that chance is very, very slim.”
LaPorta suffered the injury during the matchup against the Washington Commanders. He was placed on injured reserve the following week. His season concludes with 40 receptions for 489 yards and three touchdowns. It is a crushing blow for an offense that leaned heavily on his versatility and reliability.
Detroit now faces a major challenge at tight end. Brock Wright remains the primary replacement. He has logged significant snaps this year. Beyond Wright, however, depth is thin. The Lions recently added veteran Ross Dwelley. He has appeared in eight games mostly on special teams and played only 51 offensive snaps. Campbell noted that veteran Anthony Firkser could be elevated from the practice squad as early as this week. He also mentioned the possibility of using Dan Skipper as a jumbo tight end to mimic traditional 12-personnel looks.
Campbell stressed that the long-term outlook for LaPorta remains positive. “The good news is the procedure went really well, long term.” It offers hope for the future even if the present feels like a gut punch.
Detroit will now aim to make its playoff and Super Bowl push without one of its most explosive offensive weapons.
Packers Rule Out 2 Key Players vs. Cardinals
Green Bay, WI — October 16, 2025
The Green Bay Packers have officially ruled out rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd and rookie linebacker Collin Oliver ahead of Sunday’s Week 7 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
Head coach
Matt LaFleur confirmed the update during Thursday’s press availability, saying both players are still progressing in their recoveries but won’t be ready to suit up this week.
Lloyd, who has been sidelined since the preseason with a
hamstring injury, remains on injured reserve. Despite making progress in workouts, the team is taking a cautious approach to avoid setbacks. The 2024 third-round pick has battled multiple injuries since entering the league, limiting his opportunities to establish a consistent role in the offense.
Oliver, meanwhile, continues to recover from a hamstring injury suffered prior to training camp. The 2025 fifth-round selection out of Oklahoma State remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP)
list, with LaFleur describing his return as still “up in the air.”
With both players unavailable, the Packers will continue to rely on A.J. Dillon and Josh Jacobs in the backfield, while
Kingsley Enagbare and Quay Walker are expected to handle additional defensive responsibilities at linebacker.
The Packers (3–1–1) are riding a three-game unbeaten streak as they prepare to host the Cardinals (2–4) at
Lambeau Field on Sunday, October 19, with kickoff set for 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX.
Green Bay remains optimistic about both rookies’ long-term outlooks, but for now, their focus is on maintaining momentum without two of their promising young contributors.