Lions TE LaPorta's Hip Injury Sparks Regular Season Concerns

The Detroit Lions are facing injury concerns early in their 2026 NFL preseason, with key players Sam LaPorta and Ben Bartch sidelined. Tight end Sam LaPorta is currently managing a hip injury that flared up after a recent hit, according to coach Dan Campbell. While Campbell expressed optimism about LaPorta's long-term health, he admitted uncertainty regarding his availability for the regular season opener on September 13.

LaPorta, who previously missed significant time in 2025 due to a back injury, was having a strong season before that setback. In other injury news, offensive lineman Ben Bartch is in concussion protocol. This latest development puts a dent in Bartch's hopes of competing for the left guard starting position, especially as the window for training camp evaluations rapidly closes. Rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder is also expected to miss the remainder of training camp with a hamstring injury but is anticipated to return early in the regular season.