The Detroit Lions appear to be getting closer to having one of their most important offensive weapons back on the field.

Tight end Sam LaPorta continues to work his way back from the back injury that ended his 2025 season, and head coach Dan Campbell offered an encouraging update this week as mandatory minicamp gets underway.

LaPorta has been a limited participant during offseason practices, but Campbell likes the direction his recovery is heading.

“We like where he’s going,” Campbell said prior to Tuesday’s minicamp practice. “He’s trending the right way.”

The update is welcome news for a Lions offense that missed LaPorta’s presence after he suffered a season-ending injury in Week 10 last year.

Since arriving in Detroit, LaPorta has established himself as one of the NFL’s top tight ends and a favorite target of quarterback Jared Goff. His ability to impact both the passing game and run game makes him a critical piece of the Lions’ offensive attack.

While Campbell stopped short of guaranteeing LaPorta will be ready when training camp opens, the signs continue to point in a positive direction.

With the Lions set to break for the summer following minicamp, all eyes will be on LaPorta’s progress over the next several weeks. Based on Campbell’s latest comments, Detroit has reason to feel optimistic heading into training camp.