Detroit won't have its play-making tight end for at least the next month.
The Lions placed Sam LaPorta (back) on injured reserve on Saturday, forcing him out for at least the next four games.
LaPorta, who was already ruled out for Sunday's road game in Philadelphia, is Jared Goff's second favorite target with 40 receptions for 466 yards, second only to star wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown. The third-year TE has also found the end zone three times in nine games played this season.
Replacing LaPorta's production won't come easy for Detroit, but they have a capable backup in Brock Wright, who's caught nine balls for 71 receiving yards and two TDs. Ross Dwelley sits behind Wright on the depth chart.
The Lions' offense still has a handful of weapons to maintain its explosiveness, namely St. Brown and field-stretcher Jameson Williams at receiver. Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery remain as one of the best running back duos in the NFL.
Following Sunday's road game against the Eagles, the Lions will play a three-game homestand against the Giants, Packers and Cowboys without LaPorta.
