The Detroit Lions are looking to repeat the massive success they had last season after appearing in the National Football Conference finals for the first time since 1992.
While the Lions won their first game against the Los Angeles Rams in dominant fashion, they barely lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week.
Now, as they hold a 10 point lead over the Arizona Cardinals, they may have to continue without one of their best offensive weapons.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 15: Sam LaPorta #87 of the Detroit Lions walks back to the locket room before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Ford Field on September 15, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. The Buccaneers beat the Lions 20-16.
Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images
According to Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team and NFL Spotlight, Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has been carted to the locker room.
However, it’s worth noting that he left the field on his own accord before being carted from the side line.
No details have been given regarding what kind of injury it is, but it likely has something to do with the ankle since it was caught underneath a defender.
While this had some people worried about his condition, LaPorta was seen back on the sidelines in the second half. However, whether he’ll return is still in question.
Alongside wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, LaPorta proved to be a major reason for the Lions’ success last season.
Selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 34th overall pick, LaPorta became one of the most dominant tight ends in the league.
LaPorta recorded 86 receptions on 120 targets for 889 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 48 first downs. Additionally, he rushed for four yards.
This skillful play led to LaPorta being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team, the Pro Bowl, and second-team All-Pro. He also finished third in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting behind wide receiver Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams and quarterback C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans.
LaPorta set the recordes for most receptions made by a rookie tight end (86) and most postseason receiving yards by a rookie tight end (176).
While he hasn’t been as prominent this season, only recording six receptions for 58 yards and three first downs, he is still a necessary part of the Lions’ offense.
LaPorta was equally impressive in his college career. In four seasons at Iowa, he recorded 153 receptions for 1,786 yards and five touchdowns in 46 games.
Hopefully LaPorta will be able to make a quick recovery and Detroit won’t feel his absence in the near future.
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