Overview
- LaPorta’s back injury triggers an injured-reserve stint of at least four games, making Week 15 against the Rams his earliest possible return.
- Detroit downgraded Marcus Davenport, D.J. Reed, Malcolm Rodriguez and Miles Frazier to out for Week 11, with Rodriguez’s 21‑day practice window nearing its deadline.
- The Lions elevated wide receivers Tom Kennedy and Jackson Meeks, signed interior lineman Michael Niese to the 53, and released defensive lineman Pat O’Connor with an injury settlement.
- Rookie receiver Isaac TeSlaa was added as questionable on Saturday but was cleared and active on game day, while Brock Wright opened as TE1 with Ross Dwelley in support.
- Without LaPorta, Detroit moved away from multi-tight end groupings and is testing receiver-heavy concepts, including cross-training Meeks for hybrid H‑back duties.