After cruising to two straight NFC North titles, the Detroit Lions sit at 6-4 this season and are fighting for a playoff berth. One of the engines to Detroit's offense will likely not be along for the ride.

Dan Campbell announced Friday that Pro Bowl tight end Sam LaPorta underwent back surgery and is doubtful to return in 2025. LaPorta was a key target for Jared Goff, and his improved blocking recently earned him praise from Campbell.

“I think Sam has taken another step forward," Campbell said last month. "Sometimes what not everybody sees about Sam, he’s got to do everything. He’s got to pass protect, he’s got to run block and certainly as a receiver he’s got value. The guy can do it all. Where he’s taken his biggest jump is in the run game and pass protection, and continues to be a threat in the pass game."

LaPorta's injury adds to what's been a turbulent year for the Detroit offense. Questionable usage of wide receiver Jameson Williams and an overall lack of cohesion led to Campbell taking play-calling duties from offensive coordinator John Morton in Week 10, and after a 44-point showing against the sieve known as the Washington Commanders' defense, Detroit struggled to move the ball in a 16-9 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Fifth-year pro Brock Wright will be the Lions' starting tight end going forward, but it'll take a team effort to survive LaPorta's absence. For the fantasy players out there, expect more targets for Williams, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Sam LaPorta injury update: Latest on Lions TE's return in 2025

Reporting by Wajih AlBaroudi, For The Win / For The Win

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