Sam LaPorta cleared for training camp after back surgery
By FF Beacon
This story was written by FF Beacon's automated news desk. Michael built the desk and oversees it.
Updated
Sam LaPorta, TE for the Detroit Lions, has been fully cleared to participate in training camp, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. A source told Fowler that LaPorta was cleared earlier this month and is expected to be a full participant when the Lions open camp next week. The team may manage his early workload, but the expectation is that he is "full go."
What happened to LaPorta last season
LaPorta suffered a fully herniated disc during a Week 10 game against the Washington Commanders. He described the injury as the result of accumulated hits and falls in prior weeks, with the disc fully herniating in that game. When rehab did not produce enough improvement, the Lions opted for surgery. He underwent a microdiscectomy and missed the final eight games of the season.
During the spring, LaPorta did walkthroughs at OTAs and minicamp instead of full-speed work. Head coach Dan Campbell said in June that the team liked where LaPorta was trending.
Where Sam LaPorta's fantasy value stands
Before the injury, LaPorta was on a strong pace. In nine games in 2025 he had 40 receptions, 489 yards, and 3 touchdowns, averaging 54.3 yards per game. Across three seasons his career line is 186 catches, 2,104 yards, and 20 touchdowns.
He earned a Pro Bowl nod and second-team All-Pro honors as a rookie with 86 receptions, 889 yards, and 10 touchdowns, then posted 60 receptions, 726 yards, and 7 touchdowns in 2024 before the injury-shortened 2025 campaign. Two straight years of declining counting stats may push his ADP down in drafts. That is where the value is.
A couple of things are worth watching. Detroit brought in new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, who previously worked with Trey McBride in Arizona and knows how to use a tight end in the passing game. LaPorta is also entering the final year of his rookie contract, which adds motivation to put up a big, healthy season.
LaPorta is healthy, cleared, and entering a contract year. Target him at a discount in redraft and dynasty formats.