Sam LaPorta is back on the practice field for the Detroit Lions, a massive relief after his knee injury last week had everyone worried he could miss regular season action. As the Lions hit the practice field again after nearly a week, there’s a lot to unpack about their injury situation, and not all of it is good news.
LaPorta Back: Breathing Room for the Offense
The biggest headline, no doubt, is LaPorta’s return to practice. The tight end suffered a hip injury but his quick turnaround from what was a knee injury last week is huge. Lions head coach Dan Campbell had even said LaPorta’s injury *could* have lingered into the regular season, so seeing him not only back but getting plenty of team reps during Tuesday’s practice is a win. Lions fans can take a deep breath on that one. Guard Ben Bartch also returned, clearing concussion protocol. He immediately stepped in as the team’s second-string left guard, a critical move for a guy on the roster bubble. His return is huge for his chances to make the final 53-man roster.
Detroit’s Secondary Is Bleeding Players
While the LaPorta news is good, the picture gets way more complicated elsewhere, especially in the defensive backfield. Linebacker Trevor Nowaske left practice super early, with trainers looking at his lower body before he limped off under his own power. Defensive back Nick Whiteside played most of practice but was seen walking with a trainer during the final drills before heading to the locker room. Safety Dan Jackson also left early; he had left Saturday’s preseason game early too, so this could have been a planned limited session. No official updates have been provided on these guys.
The real crisis, though, is at safety. The Lions are severely shorthanded there right now. Thomas Harper, who missed a few practices, is dealing with an ankle injury that Campbell revealed on Tuesday will likely keep him out for the rest of the week. Campbell even said, “Could he be ready this weekend? I think it’s unlikely, but you never know.” Kerby Joseph (knee) and Brian Branch (Achilles) both remain on the PUP list, with Joseph also away from the team for a personal issue, though he’s expected back soon. With Christian Izien also not practicing due to an undisclosed issue, Detroit’s safety depth is currently depleted.
The Lions have a long list of players not practicing right now, including running backs Isiah Pacheco (knee) and Jabari Small (concussion), plus multiple offensive linemen and linebackers. Rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder (leg) is working with a trainer daily, and while Campbell said Rolder probably won’t practice before camp ends, it’s clear he’s getting close. With training camp heating up, the Lions need to get healthy fast, especially in the defensive backfield. How they manage this safety crisis could seriously impact their early season form.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pride of Detroit.
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