Lions tight end LaPorta's Week 1 status uncertain

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta's availability for the regular-season opener is in question after he sustained a hip injury during a training camp practice this week. Head coach Dan Campbell said Thursday that the team is taking a cautious approach with the star player, leaving his status for the Week 1 game against the New Orleans Saints uncertain.

Campbell explained that LaPorta "got hit in the hip" during a recent session, causing the injury to flare up. "It's a little aggravated. But we feel good longterm about him. We'll rest him for a little bit here and let it calm down," Campbell told reporters. When asked directly about the possibility of LaPorta missing the opener against New Orleans, Campbell was noncommittal, stating, "I don't know. I feel like we'll be OK, but I don't know."

The development is a significant concern for the Lions' offense as the 2026 season approaches. LaPorta, 25, is a central figure in Detroit's passing game, particularly in the red zone. The uncertainty adds a layer of complication to offensive planning, especially under new coordinator Drew Petzing.

The current situation comes after an injury-shortened 2025 campaign for LaPorta. He was limited...