Lions coach Dan Campbell told reporters they’re going to ask a lot of TE Sam LaPorta (back) this season.

04 June 2026

Campbell made an off-hand comment during an answer about RB Jahmyr Gibbs, saying the team will be asking a lot of their skill position players and included LaPorta in the list. While the 25-year-old tight end still isn’t practicing after undergoing back surgery in November, Campbell isn’t forgetting about him. His tone was a stark contrast to how he spoke about other injured players and that alone is a good sign for LaPorta’s recovery.