Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell announced Friday that tight end Sam LaPorta will likely miss the remainder of the season following surgery to repair a back issue.

LaPorta’s absence was already felt during Detroit’s 16–9 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last weekend, a game he missed after being placed on injured reserve. His production this year included 40 catches for 489 yards and three touchdowns, adding to his career totals of 186 receptions, 2,104 yards and 20 scores in just over two seasons.

“Losing Sam is definitely tough,” Campbell said. “It’s a blow. But we’ll figure it out. We’ve got enough playmakers, and our offensive line will continue to carry the load.”

With LaPorta sidelined, veteran tight end Brock Wright steps into the starting role. Wright, now in his fifth season with Detroit, has started at various points throughout his career. This season he has recorded 11 receptions for 79 yards and two touchdowns, bringing his career totals to 67 catches for 603 yards and 11 touchdowns.

LaPorta, drafted in the second round out of Iowa in 2023, quickly emerged as one of the league’s top young tight ends. He earned second-team All-Pro honors in his debut season and finished third in the Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year voting.

Campbell added that the surgery was successful and should benefit LaPorta’s long-term outlook.