Lions top offensive weapon unlikely to return this season after undergoing back surgery

President Donald Trump was in the FOX booth for the Washington Commanders' touchdown drive against the Detroit Lions.

The Detroit Lions might have lost one of their top offensive weapons for the season.

Lions star tight end Sam LaPorta is unlikely to return this season after undergoing back surgery, head coach Dan Campbell said during his press conference on Friday.

"I think we would be fortunate to have a chance to get him back for the rest of the season," Campbell said. "I think that's very, very slim."

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Sam LaPorta (87) of the Detroit Lions looks on prior to an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, on Sept. 22, 2025. (Michael Owens/Getty Images)

"The good news is the procedure went really well, long term."

The loss of LaPorta is a massive one for a potent Lions offense. The 24-year-old was in the midst of another strong season with 40 catches for 489 yards and three touchdowns in nine games this season. 

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Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta runs with the ball after making a catch as Washington Commanders safety Jeremy Reaves (39) defends during the first half of an NFL football game in Landover, Maryland, on Nov. 9, 2025. (Nick Wass/AP Photo)

The Pro Bowl tight end is second on the team in receptions – Amon-Ra St. Brown leads with 66 – and is third on the team in receiving yards behind St. Brown's 735 and Jameson Williams' 562. Backup tight end Brock Wright will be thrust into a more prominent role in LaPorta’s absence. 

LaPorta has been an instant contributor since being drafted in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft