s Sam LaPorta playing vs Packers? Sam LaPorta injury update

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta will not play against the Green Bay Packers on November 27 after recently undergoing back surgery. Coach Dan Campbell confirmed the update on November 21 in Allen Park and said the chances of LaPorta returning this season are very slim. The Lions will rely on depth options as they host the Packers at Ford Field.

LaPorta suffered the back injury on November 9 against the Washington Commanders. He was placed on injured reserve and has already missed the November 16 game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Campbell said the procedure went well for long-term recovery, but the team does not expect him back soon.

Latest details on the Sam LaPorta injury update

Dan Campbell told reporters that LaPorta is out for an extended period after back surgery. The coach said the team would be fortunate to have LaPorta return before the end of the regular season. That reflects the severity of the injury and the timeline associated with back procedures. The comments were made during Campbell’s November 21 press conference.

LaPorta has been one of Detroit’s most reliable offensive weapons this season. He has 40 receptions for 489 yards and three touchdowns. His role on third downs and in the red zone has been critical for Detroit’s passing game. The injury removes one of the Lions’ top targets at a difficult point in the schedule.

The Lions will be without their top two tight ends for the Packers game. Brock Wright, who took over starting duties, is out with a neck injury. Detroit elevated Zach Horton and promoted Anthony Firkser from the practice squad. Veteran Ross Dwelley is expected to see the most snaps at the position. The tight end room now relies on depth pieces rather than established starters.

Trusted outlets such as the Associated Press and local beat reports have emphasized the impact of LaPorta’s absence. The Lions are still in the playoff hunt, and losing a top offensive playmaker adds pressure to the rest of the lineup. Detroit’s passing game must adjust while also dealing with injuries across other position groups.

How the Lions adjust without Sam LaPorta

Detroit’s offense changes when LaPorta is not available. He is a high-volume target and a reliable option near the goal line. Without him, Detroit may shift more targets toward wide receivers and running backs. Quarterback Jared Goff will need to distribute the ball differently and rely on timing routes to maintain rhythm.

The Lions may use more two-back sets and motion to create mismatches instead of leaning on the traditional tight end role. Replacement players like Dwelley and Firkser can contribute, but neither carries LaPorta’s production level. Detroit’s coaching staff must adjust the playbook for the Packers game.

LaPorta’s recovery is trending well long-term, but his short-term outlook remains poor. The Lions will continue to monitor his status, but the primary focus will be preparing depth options for upcoming matchups. The Sam LaPorta injury update remains one of the biggest concerns for Detroit as the season continues.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Sam LaPorta playing against the Packers?

No. LaPorta is out after back surgery and is not expected to return this week. The team has already ruled him out.

Q2: How serious is the Sam LaPorta injury?

LaPorta underwent back surgery, and the timeline for his return is described as very slim for the remainder of the season.

Q3: Who replaces Sam LaPorta for the Lions?

Ross Dwelley is expected to lead the tight end group. Anthony Firkser and Zach Horton will rotate into the lineup.

Q4: When did Sam LaPorta get injured?

He suffered the back injury on November 9 against the Washington Commanders. He was placed on injured reserve shortly after.

Q5: Will Sam LaPorta return this season?

Dan Campbell said it is unlikely. The team would be fortunate to get him back before the end of the regular season.