Sam LaPorta Returns to Lions’ Practice After Hip Flare

Overview

• Sam LaPorta returned to full-team practice on Tuesday and took part in both 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 reps, including catching a deep out from Jared Goff.
• LaPorta had been sidelined since Aug. 17 after a hip flare but had been medically cleared for camp following a 2025 microdiscectomy for a herniated disc.
• Coach Dan Campbell said the team rested LaPorta when the hip flared to protect his long-term health and will monitor how he feels in the days ahead.
• Offensive lineman Ben Bartch also returned to practice after recovering from a Lisfranc foot issue and a concussion protocol stint, while linebacker Damone Clark remains out indefinitely.
• LaPorta’s return helps the Lions finalize late-camp play installations, shapes Week 1 personnel planning at tight end, and bears on his contract-year evaluation and potential extension.