In order to get ready for their first-ever NFC Championship game against the top-seeded San Francisco 49ers, the Detroit Lions held their first practice of the week. But after missing practice on Wednesday, Detroit might be without one of its best pass catchers for the game on Sunday.
Rookie tight end Sam LaPorta, who has stood out as one of the top pass catchers in this high-powered offense did not participate in Wednesday’s practice. LaPorta suffered a hyperextension and bone bruise in his left knee against the Minnesota Vikings in the last week of the regular season.
Despite being injured in the regular season finale, LaPorta has fought through the pain and played in both playoff games for Detroit so far, catching 12 balls for 79 yards and a touchdown. LaPorta will have two more practices before the Lions make a ruling on his status and potentially hit him with a designation.
Detroit Lions Sign Veteran TE Zach Ertz to Practice Squad
With LaPorta dealing with multiple knee injuries and backup tight end Brock Wright breaking his forearm in Sunday’s win versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Lions have added a veteran to the team in Zach Ertz. Ertz is a 3-time pro-bowler and has caught over 700 balls for 7,434 yards in his 12-year career. If LaPorta cannot suit up on Sunday versus San Francisco, expect Ertz to be called up from the practice squad on short notice.
Another Lions pass catcher who caught an injury designation was Josh Reynolds due to a rib issue. Reynolds has caught a touchdown in both playoff games for Detroit so far and has been a reliable option for quarterback Jared Goff downfield. He was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday and will continue to be monitored. Kalif Raymond was also a non-participant in practice Wednesday due to a knee injury.
