The Detroit Lions are getting some much-needed reinforcements at tight end-and the timing couldn’t be better.
On Monday, the team officially opened the 21-day practice window for veteran Shane Zylstra, signaling he’s on track to return from injured reserve. Zylstra has been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury back in Week 2 against the Chicago Bears, and while the Lions have managed to stay productive without him, their depth at tight end has recently taken a major hit.
Sam LaPorta, the standout rookie who quickly became a key piece of Detroit’s offense, is likely done for the season following back surgery. Brock Wright, the team’s second option, is also in danger of missing significant time after suffering a trachea injury against the Giants. He hasn’t practiced since, and head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged that Wright’s situation could be a long-term one as the team awaits further medical evaluations.
That leaves the Lions in scramble mode at a position that had been a quiet strength for most of the year. Last week, they turned to a patchwork group of Ross Dwelley, Anthony Firkser, and undrafted rookie Zach Horton to fill the void. But with Zylstra now back on the practice field, there’s a real opportunity for the Lions to stabilize things.
The big question is how quickly Zylstra can get back into game shape. He hasn’t played since mid-September, and getting up to speed with the physical demands of the position-especially with blocking responsibilities-won’t happen overnight. But if he’s healthy, he brings something this current group doesn’t: experience in the system and a proven ability to contribute in the red zone.
Zylstra has logged 31 games with the Lions, including three starts. He’s not your traditional in-line blocker-remember, he came into the league as a wide receiver-but he’s a legitimate receiving threat when used correctly. In 2022, he hauled in four touchdown passes, showing a knack for finding soft spots in coverage and making the most of his opportunities.
Beyond his offensive upside, Zylstra also adds value on special teams. Since joining Detroit in 2021, he’s played 361 snaps in the third phase of the game-an area where the Lions could use a little extra juice, especially if injuries continue to pile up across the roster.
With LaPorta and Wright sidelined, the Lions don’t just need a body-they need someone who knows the playbook, can contribute in multiple phases, and won’t be overwhelmed by the moment. Zylstra checks all those boxes. Whether he can get back to full speed in time to make a real impact remains to be seen, but his return gives Detroit a veteran option at a position that’s suddenly wide open.