Overview
- Coach Dan Campbell delivered his first detailed update, saying the hope is for a return by training camp or early next season, with uncertainty because the injury involves the back.
- Campbell said the surgery relieved pressure on a nerve and that LaPorta feels better, with daily rehabilitation ongoing.
- Detroit went 2-5 without LaPorta as scoring fell from 31.4 to 25.6 points per game, and the team was eliminated from playoff contention last week.
- With Brock Wright on injured reserve, the Lions leaned on Anthony Firkser, Shane Zylstra and Giovanni Ricci at tight end, underscoring a depth need.
- LaPorta injured his back on Nov. 9 and had surgery in mid-November; he is extension-eligible this offseason and reporting indicates the team could wait on a long-term deal.