Sam LaPorta's hip injury raises concerns for Lions ahead of season

9 sources1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 6:00 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Sam LaPorta's hip injury raises concerns for Lions ahead of season
Summary

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is dealing with a hip injury sustained during practice, leading to uncertainty about his availability for the start of the regular season. Coach Dan Campbell confirmed the injury is aggravated, but remains optimistic about LaPorta's long-term health. LaPorta had previously recovered from back surgery that sidelined him for the last eight games of the 2025 season. The Lions' first game is set for September 13 against the New Orleans Saints, giving LaPorta a limited timeframe to recover from this latest issue. Other injury updates include reserve guard Ben Bartch entering concussion protocol and rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder's hamstring injury, which may delay his practice participation.

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Status Watch
  • LaPorta's injury occurred in practice, raising doubts for the regular season.
  • Coach Campbell is optimistic but uncertain about LaPorta's recovery timeline.
  • Lions' first game is September 13 against the Saints.
  • Ben Bartch is in concussion protocol, complicating his position battle.
  • Rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder's practice return is considered unlikely.
Latest Updates
  • 6:20 PMESPNLions unsure if injured LaPorta will play Week 1
  • 5:49 PMYahoo SportsDan Campbell Drops Concerning Sam LaPorta Injury Update
  • 5:48 PMYahoo SportsSam LaPorta out indefinitely with hip injury, leaving Lions weak at TE
  • 5:25 PMYahoo SportsDetroit Lions share Sam LaPorta injury update
  • 4:49 PMYahoo SportsSam LaPorta injury update: Lions unsure if TE will miss start to season
  • 4:45 PMYahoo SportsLions' Sam LaPorta has injury issue that could linger into regular season
  • 4:40 PMYahoo SportsLions TE Sam LaPorta dealing with hip injury
What they're saying
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Dan Campbell revealed Sam LaPorta is dealing with a hip injury and could not guarantee the Detroit Lions tight end will be ready for Week 1.

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Sam LaPorta, entering his fourth season with the Detroit Lions, is dealing with a hip injury he sustained at practice.

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Sam LaPorta's status for the Lions' regular-season opener is unclear after the star tight end suffered a hip injury.

ESPNby Eric Woodyard
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