Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is battling a hip injury, and while the club hopes it won’t be a long-term problem, his availability for Week 1 is now a real question mark. Head coach Dan Campbell told reporters Thursday that LaPorta took a hit to the hip recently, and it’s “flared up a little bit, it’s a little aggravated.” That’s not what you want to hear from a key offensive weapon this close to the season opener.
Resting Up, But Doubts Remain
Campbell said the Lions are gonna give LaPorta some time to heal, letting it “calm down.” He stressed that they “feel good long-term about him,” which is a relief, but the short-term is where things get shaky. The coach admitted that while he *feels* like LaPorta *should* be OK for Week 1, the team just isn’t sure at this point. That uncertainty is a gut punch when you’re counting on a guy. This isn’t just some camp ding either. This is a guy coming off back surgery in late November last year that ended his season. You wonder if that history makes them extra cautious, or if this hip issue is just a nasty bit of bad luck.
Key Player Concerns
LaPorta was a big part of their offense when he was healthy last year. In just nine games, he racked up 40 catches for 489 yards and hauled in three touchdowns. That kind of production is hard to replace, especially if he’s not 100% or misses time. It’s not the only health issue for the Lions, either. Guard Ben Bartch is also in concussion protocol, adding another layer of concern for their offensive unit. When your coach says “not sure” about a starter for Week 1, that’s a red flag.
The Lions have got to get LaPorta healthy. Losing him or having him limited for their opening game would be a tough blow. All eyes will be on his recovery as Week 1 approaches.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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