LaPorta Questionable, Houston Out against Rams

Four players ruled out Sunday.

The Detroit Lions ruled four players out for Sunday's Wild Card matchup with the Los Angeles Rams. Kalif Raymond, James Houston, Jerry Jacobs and James Mitchell were officially ruled out. 

The team still hasn't made an official decision on the status of tight end Sam LaPorta for the game, as he was ruled questionable. 

He participated in practice Friday, sporting a big brace on his left knee. His presence at practice alone is an encouraging development, after being listed as a non-participant each of the previous two days. 

Coach Dan Campbell has provided encouraging updates about LaPorta's health throughout the week. On Friday, he explained that the team would evaluate how the rookie tight end was feeling Saturday morning. 

Jacobs is listed as out, but is reportedly heading to injured reserve after suffering an injury. Campbell said that the move will be made official on Saturday. 

Sunday's game will be the first ever playoff game hosted at Ford Field. Campbell and the rest of the Lions are expecting a raucous environment, based on the fan support throughout the season. 

"To me, this is three years ago thinking about what this was gonna be like and what it could be like," Campbell said. "And now, it's here, and so, I know exactly what it's gonna look like. I've seen it in my head. It's gonna be different than anybody's seen. It's gonna be one of the most electric environments, atmospheres that you're gonna find. And, I think it's gonna be an advantage." 

Unfortunately for Detroit's defense, Houston, who recorded eight sacks last season, will not be available for Detroit's first home playoff game in 30 years. 

Lions' Wild Card Friday injury report

• Kalif Raymond -- Knee Out
• Jerry Jacobs -- Thigh/Knee Out
• James Houston -- Ankle Out
• James Mitchell -- Hand Out 
• Sam LaPorta -- Knee Questionable
• John Cominsky -- Illness Questionable