Sam LaPorta 'Trending in Right Direction' to Play against Rams
The Detroit Lions are likely going to have one of their top tight ends in the lineup against the Los Angeles Rams at Ford Field.
Rookie tight end Sam LaPorta, who was listed on the Friday injury report as questionable, is "trending in the right direction" to appear in his first ever NFL playoff game, according to the NFL Network.
Last week, the talented tight end suffered a hyperextended knee and a bone bruise in the Lions' season-ending victory at home against the Minnesota Vikings.
LaPorta was observed by reporters practicing Friday with a knee brace, which he will wear for the remainder of the 2023 season.
In his rookie season, the first-year tight end earned second-team All-Pro honors. He recorded 86 receptions, a new rookie record at his position, for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Early in his tenure in Motown, the 23-year-old became a valuable member of the offense, regularly extending drives and becoming one of Jared Goff's most reliable offensive weapons.
His availability is key, as the depth in the tight ends room has been impacted due to injuries.
James Mitchell was recently placed on the injured reserve list, ending his 2023 season.
Brock Wright has battled injuries the majority of the season, and Anthony Firkser has not been a consistent contributor.
LaPorta's availability could provide the boost needed to aid Detroit in advancing past the Wild Card round of the playoffs.
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