Sam LaPorta 'Optimistic' about Playing Rams

LaPorta provides encouraging injury update.

A scare was felt throughout the Detroit Lions' fanbase when rookie tight end Sam LaPorta suffered a knee injury in the regular season finale. 

LaPorta was diagnosed with a hyperextended knee and a bone bruise, allowing for a collective sigh of relief. With no structural damage, there would be no long-term absence for the standout. 

Coach Dan Campbell has provided encouraging updates regarding the rookie's status throughout the week. He anticipates knowing LaPorta's chances of playing by Friday afternoon.

LaPorta, however, added that he is optimistic about taking the field on Sunday.

"Yeah, I'm optimistic," LaPorta said. "We'll see." 

The rookie tight end was listed as a non-participant in practice Thursday. After practice, he ran routes with quarterback Jared Goff, and went through individual run-blocking drills.

"You know, I got some reps today at practice. Starting to feel better, day by day. We'll see where it takes me tomorrow," LaPorta said. "Really just taking it a day at a time, because when it first happened, it didn't feel great. I feel like I've started to bounce back quickly. So, we'll see, day by day."

The Iowa product has been a huge part of the offense this season. He set the NFL record for receptions by a rookie, and had 889 receiving yards, along with 10 touchdowns. 

Should LaPorta play, he anticipates wearing a knee brace as a precautionary measure in Sunday's game against the Rams. He's no stranger to coming back from injuries, as he played in college four weeks after suffering a torn meniscus.