Posted on Nov 15

Lions TE LaPorta placed on IR, Wright to step up in his absence

Posted Nov 15, 2025

The Detroit Lions are facing significant challenges as tight end Sam LaPorta is sidelined for at least four games due to a back injury.

Why it matters: LaPorta, the team's second-round draft pick in 2023, has made notable contributions this season, with 40 receptions for 489 yards and three touchdowns. His absence will require the Lions to adapt their offensive scheme and rely on backup tight end Brock Wright.

LaPorta's versatility as both a receiver and blocker made him a key asset in the Lions' evolving offensive strategy, which has emphasized a balanced attack featuring both the run and pass.
With LaPorta out, Wright will have an increased role in an offense that has relied heavily on tight ends for both blocking and route running.

What’s new: The Lions have placed LaPorta on injured reserve, confirming he will miss a minimum of four games.

Head coach Dan Campbell maintains high confidence in Wright, stating, "Brock's a guy we don't talk a lot about, but he's the jack-of-all-trades."
Wright's multifaceted skill set allows him to effectively contribute in various areas, including pass protection and special teams.

Yes, but: While Wright steps into a more prominent role, the absence of LaPorta could disrupt the established rhythm of the passing game.

Amon-Ra St. Brown, the team's leading receiver, may face additional defensive pressure without LaPorta drawing attention from linebackers and safeties.
The Lions will need to adjust their scheming to ensure that Wright can adequately fill the void left by LaPorta while maximizing the effectiveness of their offensive weapons.

What to watch: Keep an eye on how the Lions' offense adapts in the coming weeks.

With Kerby Joseph, an All-Pro safety, also ruled out due to injury, the Lions' defense may be impacted, putting further strain on the offensive unit to score points.
The interplay between Wright and quarterback Jared Goff will be critical, as Goff relies on his tight ends for quick reads and reliable targets.

Our thought bubble: The situation highlights the importance of depth in NFL rosters, especially at key positions like tight end.

Teams that can pivot effectively when faced with injuries often find success; however, the Lions must ensure that they do not lose momentum during this challenging period.

The bottom line: The next few games will test the Lions' depth and ability to adapt, as they look to maintain their competitive edge without LaPorta's presence on the field.

Lions TE LaPorta placed on IR, Wright to step up in his absence

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 15, 2025

The Detroit Lions are facing significant challenges as tight end Sam LaPorta is sidelined for at least four games due to a back injury.

LaPorta's versatility as both a receiver and blocker made him a key asset in the Lions' evolving offensive strategy, which has emphasized a balanced attack featuring both the run and pass.

With LaPorta out, Wright will have an increased role in an offense that has relied heavily on tight ends for both blocking and route running.

What’s new: The Lions have placed LaPorta on injured reserve, confirming he will miss a minimum of four games.

Head coach Dan Campbell maintains high confidence in Wright, stating, "Brock's a guy we don't talk a lot about, but he's the jack-of-all-trades."

Wright's multifaceted skill set allows him to effectively contribute in various areas, including pass protection and special teams.

Yes, but: While Wright steps into a more prominent role, the absence of LaPorta could disrupt the established rhythm of the passing game.

Amon-Ra St. Brown, the team's leading receiver, may face additional defensive pressure without LaPorta drawing attention from linebackers and safeties.

The Lions will need to adjust their scheming to ensure that Wright can adequately fill the void left by LaPorta while maximizing the effectiveness of their offensive weapons.

What to watch: Keep an eye on how the Lions' offense adapts in the coming weeks.

With Kerby Joseph, an All-Pro safety, also ruled out due to injury, the Lions' defense may be impacted, putting further strain on the offensive unit to score points.

The interplay between Wright and quarterback Jared Goff will be critical, as Goff relies on his tight ends for quick reads and reliable targets.

Our thought bubble: The situation highlights the importance of depth in NFL rosters, especially at key positions like tight end.

Teams that can pivot effectively when faced with injuries often find success; however, the Lions must ensure that they do not lose momentum during this challenging period.

The bottom line: The next few games will test the Lions' depth and ability to adapt, as they look to maintain their competitive edge without LaPorta's presence on the field.