- Sam LaPorta
- #87
- Team DET
- Pos TE
- Status AActive
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Impactful with lone catch
LaPorta recorded one reception on one target for 52 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 47-9 win over the Cowboys.
Analysis: While game script dictated limited target volume for most of Detroit's pass catchers, LaPorta's lack of involvement in the offense remains alarming. He has yet to top five targets -- he's only reached that mark in Week 1 -- this season while managing to top 50 receiving yards in two matchups. Despite those concerning numbers, LaPorta did deliver with his lone catch Sunday, which was a 52-yard touchdown that came on a trick play.
Published: Sun, Oct 13 at 8:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Four catches in Week 4 win
LaPorta brought in all four targets for 53 yards in the Lions' 42-29 win over the Seahawks on Monday night.
Analysis: LaPorta finished second in both receptions and receiving yards on the night, with the latter total also serving as a season high. The second-year tight end's catch tally also tied the total he'd recorded against the Rams in Week 1, but he still remains well below the pace he set during a spectacular 2023 rookie season. LaPorta has topped out at five targets (Week 1) as far as a single-game high this season, but he could be poised for more opportunities against an inconsistent Cowboys defense in…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 30 at 9:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Full practice participant Friday
LaPorta (ankle) was a full participant in practice Friday, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: LaPorta thus is set to play in Monday's game against the Seahawks, with full practice participation confirming a quick recovery from the ankle sprain that limited his snaps in the second half of last week's win over the Cardinals. He's been a huge disappointment to fantasy managers this season, but the overall struggles of the TE position make it especially wise to practice patience.
Published: Fri, Sep 27 at 1:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to practice
LaPorta (ankle) returned to practice Friday, Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News reports.
Analysis: It's his first practice of the week, and he'll have another opportunity Saturday before the Lions host the Seahawks on Monday. LaPorta played through the ankle injury during last week's win at Arizona, but his playing time was scaled way back in the second half after he suffered the injury at the end of the second quarter.
Published: Fri, Sep 27 at 9:56am by Rotowire.com
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Sits out Thursday's practice
LaPorta (ankle) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice.
Analysis: LaPorta departed this past Sunday's win at Arizona two times due to an ankle issue but was able to finish out the game. Afterward, it was revealed that the second-year tight end was diagnosed with a low-ankle sprain. Fortunately for LaPorta, the Lions have a Monday night matchup with the Seahawks on tap, so he's been afforded a bit more time than normal to recover this week. His activity level, or lack thereof, Friday and Saturday likely will be key for his odds to suit up Week 4.
Published: Thu, Sep 26 at 1:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with low-ankle sprain
LaPorta was diagnosed with a low-ankle sprain Monday after suffering the injury in Sunday's 20-13 win over the Cardinals, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: LaPorta was forced off the field twice during Sunday's win over Arizona -- once in the first half when he was carted to the locker room, and once in the third quarter -- but he managed to return to the field in both instances. It's encouraging that the second-year tight end at least has avoided a more severe injury, such as a high-ankle sprain, but through three games to start the 2024 regular season, LaPorta has combined for just eight catches for 94 yards on 10 targets without a touchdown.…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 23 at 9:48am by Rotowire.com
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Sprains ankle Sunday
Coach Dan Campbell said LaPorta suffered an ankle sprain during Sunday's 20-13 win at Arizona, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: LaPorta was carted to the locker room late in the first half and then was deemed questionable to return due to an ankle injury in the third quarter, but he was able to reenter on both occasions. His final receiving line (2-36-0 on two targets) didn't change after he initially left the contest, and his status now will be one to monitor closely to see if he may be in danger of sitting out Monday, Sept. 30 against the Seahawks. Brock Wright finished Week 3 with four catches (on four targets) for…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 22 at 5:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to Sunday's contest
LaPorta (undisclosed) returned to Sunday's game in Arizona, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Pressreports.
Analysis: Per Birkett, LaPorta appeared to be hobbled after the Lions' third and final touchdown of the first half and needed to be carted to the locker room, but he was back on the sideline after halftime. LaPorta thus will be looking to build upon his two catches on as many targets for 36 yards over the final 30 minutes.
Published: Sun, Sep 22 at 3:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Needs cart to go to locker room
LaPorta (undisclosed) was carted to the locker room during Sunday's game at Arizona, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: The reason for LaPorta's exit isn't known, but if he's unable to return, he'll finish Week 3 action with two catches (on two targets) for 36 yards. Brock Wright and Parker Hesse are the Lions' healthy tight ends on the active roster.
Published: Sun, Sep 22 at 2:47pm by Rotowire.com
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Posts Week 2 dud
LaPorta caught two of three targets for 13 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Buccaneers.
Analysis: LaPorta was targeted on only three of Jared Goff's 55 passes, as the second-year tight end has played a secondary role early in 2024 after an outstanding rookie regular season in which LaPorta compiled 889 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. The emergence of wide receiver Jameson Williams has cut into LaPorta's opportunities, as Williams has 20 targets compared to eight for LaPorta heading into a Week 3 road game in Arizona.
Published: Sun, Sep 15 at 2:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet night on SNF
LaPorta caught four of five targets for 45 yards in Sunday's 26-20 overtime win over the Rams.
Analysis: LaPorta was quiet for the majority of Week 1, though he logged an 18-yard reception on Detroit's final possession of regulation, which ended with a game-tying field goal from Jake Bates. Quarterback Jared Goff didn't have the most effective night, limiting the tight end's overall upside against Los Angeles. LaPorta will look to get more involved in Week 2 when the Lions host the Buccaneers, a team against whom the tight end caught nine of 11 targets for 65 yards in the divisional round of the…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 8 at 9:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Not on injury report
LaPorta (hamstring) wasn't listed on the Lions' injury report Wednesday.
Analysis: LaPorta came down with a hamstring injury Aug. 5, which spurred the Lions to take a cautious approach with the second-year tight end for the rest of training camp and the preseason. Detroit didn't actually hold a practice Wednesday, but he wouldn't have been limited if the team had taken the field. With his availability now clear for Sunday's game versus the Rams, LaPorta will reclaim his standing as the Lions' second pass catcher behind wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown, which amounted to 86 catches…read more
Published: Wed, Sep 4 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Seems ready for Week 1
Coach Dan Campbell said Monday that LaPorta (hamstring) is not one of the players whose injury status is a concern for Sunday's regular-season opener against the Rams, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: LaPorta and fellow second-year standout Jahmyr Gibbs (hamstring) both resumed practicing last week after having missed a substantial portion of training camp due to hamstring issues. Campbell said Monday that only Ifeatu Melifonwu (undisclosed) is a real candidate to miss Week 1 due to injury, though, so, while it remains to be seen whether LaPorta and Gibbs have yet resumed practicing in full, both players should be on the field during Sunday Night Football to take on Los Angeles. LaPorta set…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 2 at 9:22am by Rotowire.com
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Resumes practicing
LaPorta (hamstring) returned to practice Sunday, Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News reports.
Analysis: The tight end was one of many Lions to resume practicing Sunday, and it marked his first on-field work since the first week of August. LaPorta is on track to be ready for a Week 1 game against the Rams on Sunday, Sept. 8, but it still will be worth monitoring the situation to make sure he gets back to full practice participation before then.
Published: Mon, Aug 26 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
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Should resume practicing soon
Coach Dan Campbell said Tuesday that LaPorta (hamstring) could resume practicing as soon as Sunday, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: Campbell mentioned the day after Detroit's preseason finale as a possible return date for a bunch of injured players, including LaPorta and RB Jahmyr Gibbs (hamstring). While it's not ideal to have two stars dealing with summer hamstring injuries, there's been no indication that either playmaker is expected to remain out for long. LaPorta was first reported to be dealing with an injury Aug. 5.
Published: Tue, Aug 20 at 9:45am by Rotowire.com
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Remains out Saturday
LaPorta (hamstring) did not play in the Lions' 24-23 win over Kansas City on Saturday.
Analysis: LaPorta has been nursing a hamstring injury, and he was on the sideline for Detroit's second preseason matchup. None of the team's starters played in the contest, so the tight end's absence isn't necessarily an indication of where he's at with the injury. LaPorta will look to return to practice this week, but at this point, he appears unlikely to play in Saturday's preseason finale at home versus Pittsburgh.
Published: Sun, Aug 18 at 8:16am by Rotowire.com
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Sits out preseason opener
LaPorta (hamstring) didn't see action in Thursday's preseason opener against the Giants, the Detroit News reports.
Analysis: The Lions opted not to play their key skill players in the contest, but LaPorta has been dealing with a hamstring injury, so he probably wouldn't have played Thursday even if they had. The star tight end's next chance to see game action is Aug. 17 against the Chiefs, but he'll need to get some practice time in before then for that to occur.
Published: Fri, Aug 9 at 11:01am by Rotowire.com
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Bothered by hamstring
LaPorta is dealing with a hamstring injury and will miss a second straight practice Tuesday, Justin Rogers of DetroitFootball.net reports.
Analysis: The injury is considered minor, but it's safe to assume LaPorta will miss Thursday's preseason game against the Giants even if he feels much better by then. LaPorta didn't miss any games as a rookie last year, making 17 appearances in the regular season and three more in the playoffs.
Published: Tue, Aug 6 at 7:14am by Rotowire.com
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Absent from practice Monday
Coach Dan Campbell said Monday that LaPorta (undisclosed), who did not practice, will "be fine long term, don't sweat," Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News reports.
Analysis: LaPorta appears to be dealing with a minor injury, which Campbell said the star tight end sustained in practice late last week. It doesn't appear that LaPorta's current issue is anything truly notable, but it could impact his preseason availability, beginning with Thursday's opener on the road against the Giants. As long as LaPorta is sidelined, additional first-team reps will be up for grabs for Brock Wright, James Mitchell and Shane Zylstra.
Published: Mon, Aug 5 at 12:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Primed for Year 2 with Lions
As the coming season approaches, LaPorta remains the top option in a Detroit tight end corps that also includes Brock Wright, James Mitchell, Shane Zylstra, Parker Hesse and Sean McKeon.
Analysis: LaPorta burst onto the scene last season with the Lions after being selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The 23-year-old recorded 86 receptions for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns over the team's 17 regular-season contests. The touchdown mark tied him with Rob Gronkowski for the second-most scores all-time for a rookie tight end. With offensive coordinator Ben Johnson sticking around this offseason, Detroit's high-powered offense will likely lead to another productive season for…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 1 at 5:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Impressive in postseason loss
LaPorta recorded nine receptions (on 13 targets) for 97 yards in Sunday's 34-31 loss to the 49ers.
Analysis: LaPorta led the team in targets, receptions and yards, and it was also his second consecutive contest with nine receptions and double-digit targets. Though he didn't find the end zone, LaPorta was a consistent big-play threat as he recorded a pair of catches for 16 yards, and two more of his receptions went for double-digit gains. It was a strong close to an impressive rookie season, and LaPorta should be a strong second option in Detroit's passing attack behind wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 28 at 7:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go
LaPorta (knee) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game in San Francisco, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.
Analysis: LaPorta has been listed on Detroit's injury reports throughout the playoffs after suffering a knee hyperextension during Week 18 action, but the injury didn't stop him from handling his normal workload in the wild-card and divisional rounds. He topped 80 percent snap share in both games, combining for 12 catches, 79 yards and a touchdown on 14 targets. The rookie tight end now gets a tough matchup in the NFC Championship Game, facing a Niners defense that tends to do an excellent job of…read more
Published: Fri, Jan 26 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets back to limited Thursday
LaPorta (knee) was a limited practice participant Thursday.
Analysis: One day removed from sitting out Wednesday's walkthrough, LaPorta returned to the practice field in some capacity. He now has one more chance this week to get back to all activity before the Lions potentially gives him a designation ahead of Sunday's NFC Championship Game in San Francisco. In two outings playing through a hyperextension and a bone bruise in his left knee, LaPorta has earned at least an 80 percent snap share on both occasions while hauling in 12 of 14 targets for 79 yards and…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 25 at 1:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as non-participant Wednesday
LaPorta (knee) didn't take part in Wednesday's walkthrough practice.
Analysis: LaPorta is being listed as a non-participant on a Lions injury report for the first time since Jan. 11 due to the hyperextension and bone bruise in his left knee that he suffered Week 18 against the Vikings. He's been able to play through the pain in Detroit's first two playoff games, earning at least an 80 percent snap share in both contests on his way to a combined 12 catches (on 14 targets) for 79 yards and one touchdown. LaPorta will have two more chances this week to get back to full…read more
Published: Wed, Jan 24 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Team-high nine grabs in win
LaPorta caught nine of 11 targets for 65 yards in Sunday's 31-23 divisional-round win over the Buccaneers.
Analysis: He led the Lions in catches and finished second to Amon-Ra St. Brown in targets and receiving yards -- another remarkable performance for LaPorta as he plays through a bone bruise in his left knee that he picked up in Week 18. The nine catches tied his personal best, continuing an incredible campaign that saw LaPorta set an NFL record for a rookie tight end with 86 catches during the regular season. Detroit will likely take it very easy on him again in practice this week as the team gears up…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 21 at 3:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Suiting up Sunday
LaPorta (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's divisional-round playoff game against the Buccaneers.
Analysis: After being listed as a full participant in Wednesday's walk-through, LaPorta was deemed limited Thursday and Friday before heading into the weekend listed as questionable, as he was ahead of last Sunday's 24-23 wild-card win over the Rams. In that contest, LaPorta was able to play through a hyperextension and bone bruise in his left knee, en route to logging an 80 percent snap share and catching all three of his targets for 14 yards and a touchdown. With his active status versus Tampa Bay…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 21 at 10:37am by Rotowire.com
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Listed as questionable again
LaPorta (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional-round game versus the Buccaneers.
Analysis: In the wake of playing through a hyperextension and bone bruise in his left knee this past Sunday against the Rams, LaPorta managed a full walkthrough Wednesday before moving back to limited at Thursday's practice. He'll thus enter a second consecutive weekend listed as questionable, but considering he logged an 80 percent snap share in the wild-card round, he should be good for a similar workload Sunday. LaPorta's status ultimately will be clarified about 90 minutes before a 3:00 p.m. ET…read more
Published: Fri, Jan 19 at 12:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited Thursday
LaPorta (knee) was a limited practice participant Thursday.
Analysis: After opening the week listed as a full participant at Wednesday's walkthrough, LaPorta operated with a cap on his on-field reps one day later. The Lions likely are managing his workload after he sustained a hyperextension and bone bruise in his left knee Week 18 against the Vikings. He was able to play through the issues during Sunday's wild-card win against the Rams, logging 45 of 56 offensive snaps en route to three catches (on three targets) for 14 yards and one touchdown. Friday's practice…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 18 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Scores first postseason TD
LaPorta (knee) pulled in all three of his targets for 19 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-23 win over the Rams.
Analysis: The rookie tight end carried a questionable tag heading into Sunday's playoff tilt after suffering a hyperextended knee in the regular-season finale against the Vikings last week. LaPorta was able to suit up with the assistance of a knee brace and provide fantasy players with his second two-yard touchdown in as many weeks. The 22-year-old's first postseason score helped buoy Detroit to its first playoff win since before the tight end's birth (a 38-6 win over Dallas in 1992). LaPorta will now…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 14 at 10:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Active for Sunday's game
LaPorta (knee) is listed as active for Sunday night's wild-card game against the Rams.
Analysis: LaPorta, who sustained a hyperextension and a bone bruise in his left knee during the Lions' Week 18 win over the Vikings, was listed as a 'DNP' in practice Wednesday and Thursday before being deemed a full participant Friday. During that session, the tight end -- who headed into the weekend officially listed as questionable -- was spotted with a large brace on the knee in question, with Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press subsequently relaying that LaPorta will probably utilize the brace…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 14 at 3:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Should be available Sunday
LaPorta (knee), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's wild-card game versus the Rams, is "trending in the right direction" and expected to be available to play, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: LaPorta hyperextended and suffered a bone bruise in his left knee in last Sunday's 30-20 win over the Vikings, but he's made rapid progress in his recovery from the injuries over the past week. Though Rapoport notes that LaPorta was "very limited in practice" this week despite being listed as a full participant in Friday's session, the rookie tight end appears set to take the field Sunday while sporting a protective brace on his knee. LaPorta should be officially cleared to play when Detroit…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 14 at 6:05am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable after full practice
LaPorta (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's wild-card game against the Rams, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: LaPorta seemed like a player in danger of missing time due to the awkward manner in which his left knee bent this past Sunday against the Vikings. Officially diagnosed with a hyperextension and bone bruise in that knee, he didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, but he told Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press after the latter session that he handled some reps and was optimistic about playing this weekend. In his return to drills Friday, LaPorta was seen jogging with a large brace on the knee…read more
Published: Fri, Jan 12 at 12:58pm by Rotowire.com
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In line to take the field Friday
Head coach Dan Campbell relayed that LaPorta (knee) is slated to get some work in during Friday's practice, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: After being listed as a DNP both Wednesday and Thursday, LaPorta's looming participation, in any capacity, in Friday's session is a step in the right direction for the tight end ahead of Sunday night's playoff opener against the Rams. Per Woodyard, Campbell added the Lions will "know much, much more" about LaPorta's status after the team's final practice of the week.
Published: Fri, Jan 12 at 9:33am by Rotowire.com
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Officially doesn't practice Thursday
LaPorta (knee) officially didn't practice Thursday.
Analysis: Initially, it appeared as if LaPorta would go down as a non-participant for a second day in a row when he wasn't spotted at the portion of Thursday's session open to the media. He then told Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press afterward that he took some reps and expressed optimism about suiting up for Sunday's wild-card game against the Rams after sustaining a hyperextension and bone bruise in his left knee Week 18 versus the Vikings. In the end, those reps may have happened on the side…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 11 at 1:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets in reps, hopes to play Sunday
LaPorta (knee) said that he was able to take reps during the portion of Thursday's practice that was closed to the media, and he's "optimistic" about his chances of playing in Sunday's wild-card game against the Rams, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: After he wasn't spotted on the field with his healthy teammates in the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, LaPorta looked destined to be listed as a non-participant on the Lions' second consecutive injury report, but the rookie was apparently able to take part in some drills and route running behind the scenes. Though head coach Dan Campbell suggested earlier in the week that the tight end had only an outside shot to play in the postseason opener after suffering a bone bruise and…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 11 at 12:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Still not practicing
LaPorta (knee) didn't participate in Thursday's practice, Justin Rogers of The Detroit News reports.
Analysis: LaPorta made an early exit from this past Sunday's win against the Vikings in the second quarter after his foot got stuck in the turf, resulting in his left knee bending awkwardly. Afterward, he was diagnosed with a hyperextension and bone bruise in the knee in question, and coach Dan Campbell told Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site on Monday that the rookie second-round pick had an "outside shot" to play in Sunday's wild-card game against the Rams. Campbell added at the time that the…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 11 at 11:07am by Rotowire.com
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Not at practice
LaPorta (knee) isn't practicing Wednesday, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.
Analysis: LaPorta isn't expected to practice much this week, if at all, after suffering a knee hyperextension and bone bruise during Detroit's Week 18 win over Minnesota. The Lions hope to have LaPorta available for the wild-card game against the Rams on Sunday, but even head coach Dan Campbell didn't sound too optimistic about that happening earlier this week, noting Monday that it's probably an "outside shot" that LaPorta plays.
Published: Wed, Jan 10 at 11:24am by Rotowire.com
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Chance to play in wild-card round
Head coach Dan Campbell said Monday that LaPorta (knee) has an outside shot to play in Sunday's wild-card game against the Rams, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.
Analysis: LaPorta exited this past Sunday's win over the Vikings with what has been reported as a hyperextended left knee and bone bruise after his foot got stuck in the turf, forcing his knee to bend the wrong way. He needed to be carted to the locker room, but the diagnosis is much better than initially feared. If LaPorta can't play against Los Angeles, Brock Wright (hip), if he's available, and James Mitchell would appear to be the next players up at tight end for Detroit. Campbell said he doesn't…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 8 at 11:10am by Rotowire.com
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Likely nature of knee issues revealed
LaPorta is believed to have sustained a hyperextension and a bone bruise in his left knee during Sunday's 30-20 win versus the Vikings, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: In a postgame media session, coach Dan Campbell told Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press that the Lions will have more info regarding LaPorta's diagnosis Monday, but the likely injuries have since been revealed. Ultimately, it's not as serious as it could have been, per Campbell, but there's a decent chance LaPorta misses time as a result.
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 2:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Clarity to come regarding knee injury
Coach Dan Campbell said after Sunday's 30-20 win against the Vikings that the Lions will have more information regarding the knee injury that forced LaPorta out of the contest on Monday, Tim Twentyman of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: LaPorta appeared to hyperextend his knee on a five-yard catch in the second quarter, forcing him to the sideline tent and eventually requiring a cart to get to the locker room. Per Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Campbell added, "It's not as bad as it looked, but it's not good news." That may mean LaPorta is in danger of missing the wild-card round, at the very least, but with win-or-go home games from here on out, any sort of absence could mean his season is over.
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't return Week 18
LaPorta (knee) was been downgraded to out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Vikings.
Analysis: LaPorta sustained a knee injury while being tackled in the second quarter and had to be carted to the locker room shortly before the end of the first half. While the nature of this injury is still unclear, it appears the standout rookie could be dealing with a significant issue. This could jeopardize his status for Detroit's first-round matchup in the playoffs, which will come either Saturday, Jan. 13 or Sunday, Jan. 14 depending on how the final seeding for the NFC playoff field plays out.…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 11:56am by Rotowire.com
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Carted off with knee injury
LaPorta was carted to the locker room with a knee injury during Sunday's game against the Vikings, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.
Analysis: Near the end of the first half, LaPorta appeared to hyperextend his knee while making a five-yard catch. He remained on the turf for a spell before making his way to the sideline with a visible limp. The severity of the injury isn't clear, but if he's unable to return, LaPorta will finish Week 18 with five catches (on seven targets) for 29 yards and one touchdown.
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 11:34am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Week 18
LaPorta (calf) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Vikings.
Analysis: LaPorta closed out the week with a full practice after being listed as limited Wednesday and Thursday. There's some question about the extent of Detroit's motivation Week 18 given that playoff seeding (No. 3) can only change if both the Cowboys and Eagles lose to inferior opponents, but it at least appears any limitations for LaPorta would be more about rest/caution and not as a result of his calf injury. LaPorta needs one more catch to break a tie at 81 for the rookie TE record, and by many…read more
Published: Fri, Jan 5 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Another limited session
LaPorta (ankle) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.
Analysis: LaPorta now has cobbled together back-to-back capped sessions to begin Week 18 prep as he tends to an ankle injury, giving him just one more chance to get back to full participation before the Lions potentially hand him a designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Vikings. If he's able to suit up this weekend, he likely would be hard-pressed to accrue the 140 receiving yards needed to reach 1,000 in his rookie campaign, but Minnesota's defense has allowed the second-highest catch rate (79.2…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 4 at 1:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with ankle issue
LaPorta was a limited participant at practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury.
Analysis: LaPorta previously tended to a strained calf Weeks 6 and 7, but the issue didn't affect his availability for game days, as he logged at least a 70 percent snap share on both occasions. With a new health concern in tow, his status will need to be monitored as the week goes on to get a sense of his odds to play Sunday against the Vikings, who contained him to three catches (on three targets) for 18 yards in Week 16.
Published: Wed, Jan 3 at 1:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Impressive numbers in Week 17 loss
LaPorta secured seven of 12 targets for 84 yards in the Lions' 20-19 loss to the Cowboys on Saturday night.
Analysis: LaPorta led the Lions in receptions and targets while checking in second to Amon-Ra St. Brown in receiving yards. The talented tight end was especially impressive on the final drive, kickstarting the march with two receptions for 35 yards and adding a 15-yard grab later in the possession that set up St. Brown's 11-yard touchdown catch. LaPorta's reception and yardage totals were his best since Week 13, and he'll have a chance to put a stamp on a stellar regular season against the Vikings in a…read more
Published: Sat, Dec 30 at 9:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Bottled up
LaPorta caught three of three targets for 18 yards during Sunday's 30-24 win over Minnesota.
Analysis: After hanging 56 yards and three touchdowns on the Broncos last week, LaPorta came crashing back down to earth this time around. The main issue for his production was Detroit's success on the ground when it entered the red zone, as three of the Lions' four trips to that area ended in rushing touchdowns. The only sore that came through the air went to the steady Amon-Ra St. Brown, who picked apart the Vikings secondary all afternoon. LaPorta will look to get back on track in a challenging Week…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 24 at 5:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Three-touchdown performance
LaPorta recorded five receptions on six targets for 56 yards and three touchdowns in Saturday's 42-17 win over the Broncos.
Analysis: LaPorta had a typical performance from an opportunity and yardage perspective, but he found the end zone three times to deliver a standout effort. He didn't tally his first reception until the last play of the first quarter, but he then went on to record touchdowns in each of the final three quarters of the game from 19, three and 10 yards, respectively. LaPorta won't continue to maintain the touchdown efficiency he displayed Saturday night moving forward, but he has impressively found the end…read more
Published: Sat, Dec 16 at 10:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet in loss
LaPorta caught two of six targets for 23 yards and added one carry for four yards in Sunday's 28-13 loss to the Bears.
Analysis: The rookie tight end's performance was a major disappointment following his season-best outing Week 13, when he recorded nine receptions for 140 yards and a touchdown in a 33-28 win over the Saints. Despite his underwhelming showing Week 14, LaPorta remains a solid must-start fantasy option among tight ends.
Published: Wed, Dec 13 at 4:59am by Rotowire.com
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Career-best day in win
LaPorta brought in all nine targets for 140 yards and a touchdown in the Lions' 33-28 win over the Saints on Sunday.
Analysis: The rookie tight end led the Lions' pass catchers across the board by a wide margin with reception and yardage totals that also qualified as season/career highs. LaPorta broke loose for several chunk gains throughout the afternoon, including a game-long 48-yard reception and a 13-yard scoring grab early in the first quarter. LaPorta has now scored in consecutive games for the first time in his career, affording him plenty of momentum heading into a Week 14 road matchup against the Bears.
Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 1:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Finds pay dirt
LaPorta caught five of eight targets for 47 yards with one touchdown and one two-point conversion during Thursday's 29-22 loss to the Packers.
Analysis: Coming off a pair of subpar performances, LaPorta hadn't seen a red-zone target since Detroit exited its Week 9 bye with a fully-healthy backfield. Not only did the rookie find pay dirt with one of the two looks he saw near the goal line, but he also got open on a two-point conversion to aid Detroit's comeback effort. However, a number of miscues, including three fumbles and five failed fourth-down conversion attempts, cut short the majority of the Lions' offensive drives, which prevented…read more
Published: Thu, Nov 23 at 1:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Little production against Bears
LaPorta caught three of five targets for 18 yards during Sunday's 31-26 win over the Bears.
Analysis: Despite facing soft pass defenses of late, LaPorta hasn't seen any work in the red zone since Detroit came out of a Week 9 bye with its two-headed monster (David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs) at running back fully healthy. The rookie tight end has also gotten less work in general, as LaPorta saw just five targets each of the past two weeks after averaging 7.4 per game in eight games before the bye. He will look to get back on track during a Thanksgiving Day game against a middling Packers…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 21 at 9:56am by Rotowire.com
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Four grabs in Sunday's win
LaPorta caught four of five targets for 40 yards in Sunday's 41-38 win over the Chargers.
Analysis: It was a somewhat disappointing performance for LaPorta considering Detroit's total output, but that just indicates how quickly the rookie tight end has recalibrated expectations for his production. The five targets were his lowest volume since Week 5, and the 40 yards were his third-lowest total of the season. LaPorta will look to ramp things up again Week 11 against the Bears.
Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 8:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Team-high catch tally in win
LaPorta brought in eight of 10 targets for 57 yards and a touchdown in the Lions' 26-14 win over the Raiders on Monday night.
Analysis: LaPorta led the Lions in receptions and targets while checking in second to Amon-Ra St. Brown in receiving yards. The rookie tight end also hauled in his fourth touchdown on an 18-yard grab just before halftime, snapping a brief two-game drought in that department. LaPorta's involvement in the air attack has been solid right from the onset of his career, as he's now logged at least five targets in all but one contest. He'll have a Week 9 bye to further immerse himself in the playbook before a…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 30 at 9:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Records six receptions
LaPorta tallied six receptions on seven targets for 52 yards in Sunday's 38-6 loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: The Lions' offense was sluggish for the entire game, though LaPorta escaped with a decent stat line. His six receptions were his second-highest mark in seven games, and he topped 50 receiving yards for the fourth time in that span. Also encouraging was LaPorta's role, as he finished third on the team in targets -- ahead of the likes of Josh Reynolds, Kalif Raymond and Jameson Williams.
Published: Sun, Oct 22 at 5:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Clear for Sunday
LaPorta (calf) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's contest in Baltimore.
Analysis: LaPorta has been dealing with a calf strain that flared up in the middle of last week, capping him to limited sessions Wednesday and Thursday before practicing in full Friday. The rookie second-round pick thus will enter the weekend without an injury designation for Week 7 action as he looks to build upon the 29-325-3 line on 42 targets that he's put up through six outings to kick off his career.
Published: Fri, Oct 20 at 1:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains limited Thursday
LaPorta (calf) practiced on a limited basis Thursday.
Analysis: LaPorta continues to deal with a strained calf that flared up in the middle of last week, but he was able to play through it this past Sunday in Tampa Bay and log a typical 84 percent of snaps en route to four catches (on 11 targets) for 36 yards and no touchdowns. He'll have one more session this week to prove his health before the Lions potentially tag him with a designation for Sunday's contest at Baltimore.
Published: Thu, Oct 19 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited Wednesday
LaPorta (calf) was a limited participant in Wednesday's walk-through practice.
Analysis: LaPorta's calf flared up in practice last week, forcing an absence Thursday and a limited session Friday. While he entered the weekend as questionable for this past Sunday's game at Tampa Bay, he was able to suit up and played 84 percent of snaps en route to hauling in four of 11 targets for 36 yards. The rookie tight end continues to operate with a cap on his reps as the Lions open Week 7 prep, but he'll at least have two chances to get back to full activity before the team potentially hands…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 18 at 1:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Does little with 11 targets
LaPorta recorded four receptions on 11 targets for 36 yards in Sunday's 20-6 win over Tampa Bay.
Analysis: LaPorta was questionable with a calf injury ahead of Sunday's matchup, though he managed to play through the issue. While he played a full role in the offense, he struggled to turn that into production as he turned in his lowest yardage total of his rookie year. Despite the uninspiring outcome, the positive takeaway is that LaPorta maintained a key role in the offense even with Detroit's full allotment of pass catchers available.
Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 8:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Active in Week 6
LaPorta (calf) is listed as active Sunday in Tampa Bay.
Analysis: LaPorta made a sudden appearance on the Lions' practice report Thursday, sitting out that session due to a calf injury. Coach Dan Campbell revealed Friday that LaPorta was dealing with a calf strain, which the rookie second-round pick said he likely suffered last Sunday against the Panthers before it flared up at Wednesday's practice, according to Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com. Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, LaPorta's status for Sunday was subject to a pregame workout, and after checking out OK, he'll…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 12:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Trending toward active status
The Lions are reportedly planning for LaPorta (calf) to be active for Sunday's game against the the Buccaneers, Jeff Darlington of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Darlington's report supports the notion previously relayed by Adam Schefter of ESPN that LaPorta is trending in the right direction ahead of the contest. That said, Schefter suggested that the tight end was expected to work out pre-game to finalize his availability, so those considering LaPorta in Week 6 lineups are still advised to verify his status ahead of Sunday's 4:25 ET kickoff.
Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 7:19am by Rotowire.com
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Trending toward playing Sunday
LaPorta (calf), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, appears to be trending in the right direction as the 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff approaches, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Before finalizing a decision on LaPorta's status, the Lions will put the rookie tight end through a pregame workout to see how his strained calf responds. LaPorta sat out Thursday's practice with the injury before returning to the field Friday in a limited fashion, and he's seemingly made some progress since that time. Though the Lions will know after the workout whether LaPorta will play, fantasy managers may not hear word on his status one way or the other until the team releases its inactive…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 4:54am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable for Sunday
LaPorta (calf) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Per Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com, LaPorta said Friday that he expects to play, also noting that his calf injury was probably from last week's game and flared up toward the end of Wednesday's practice. He then sat out Thursday before returning Friday as a limited participant, and fantasy managers should probably treat him as truly questionable ahead of a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, despite the tight end's stated optimism.
Published: Fri, Oct 13 at 1:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Back at practice
LaPorta (calf) returned to practice Friday, Colton Pouncy of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: He'll likely be a limited participant, one day after being added to the injury report as a non-participant due to a calf strain. The quick return, even if he's limited, suggests LaPorta is unlikely to be ruled out on the final injury report Friday, with a 'questionable' designation the probable outcome at this point. It is possible that changes if he doesn't look good at practice or deals with significant pain/discomfort afterward.
Published: Fri, Oct 13 at 9:30am by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with calf strain
Coach Dan Campbell said that LaPorta (calf) took part in Friday's walk-through practice and that his status for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers is uncertain, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: Campbell also clarified that LaPorta is dealing with a calf strain. The rookie tight end will be tagged with an official game designation when Friday's injury report is released, but at this point it looks likely that he's destined for 'questionable' status. LaPorta didn't show up on Wednesday's injury report before being sidelined Thursday, so his calf strain may have been sustained during practice. No. 2 tight end Brock Wright would likely start versus Tampa Bay if LaPorta were to miss time,…read more
Published: Fri, Oct 13 at 8:23am by Rotowire.com
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Absence due to calf injury
LaPorta didn't practice Thursday due to a calf injury.
Analysis: After not showing up on the Lions' initial injury report of Week 6 prep Wednesday, LaPorta wasn't spotted during the media-access portion of Thursday's session, per Justin Rogers of The Detroit News. The reason for the rookie tight end's absence now is known, and it remains to be seen if it'll impact his availability for Sunday's game in Tampa Bay. Friday's report will relay whether or not he heads into the weekend with a designation, but reserve TE Brock Wright would stand to benefit if…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 12 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Scores twice in win
LaPorta caught three of four targets for 47 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 42-24 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: LaPorta hauled in a four-yard touchdown prior to running free off a trick play for a 31-yard score during the second quarter. Just five games into his career, the second-round pick has already emerged as one of the league's most productive tight ends. While top receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (abdomen) could return for Week 6's game in Tampa Bay, LaPorta should remain a featured option, boasting four straight games with a catch of 20-plus yards and three touchdowns in Detroit's last three outings.
Published: Sun, Oct 8 at 1:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Totals 56 yards
LaPorta caught four of five targets for 56 yards during Thursday's 34-20 win over Green Bay.
Analysis: LaPorta looked like he was on his way to a big night after getting loose for a 35-yard gain within the game's opening minutes. While he received another four targets before halftime, he didn't see another pass come his way in the second half with Detroit protecting a large lead with the run game -- and successfully limiting Green Bay to less than three minutes of fourth-quarter offense in the process. While this muted finish is disappointing for LaPorta's production, through three weeks only 12…read more
Published: Fri, Sep 29 at 7:53am by Rotowire.com
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Continues to impress
LaPorta caught eight of 11 targets for 84 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-6 win over the Falcons.
Analysis: LaPorta got wide open for a 45-yard touchdown during the second quarter, marking the first end-zone trip of his bright young career. The rookie second-rounder has increased his targets and yardage in each week this season, emerging as an immediate contributor behind top wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown in the passing game. With his stock on the rise, LaPorta faces a quick turnaround ahead of Thursday night's game at the Packers.
Published: Sun, Sep 24 at 2:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes five grabs
LaPorta caught five of six targets for 63 yards in Sunday's 37-31 overtime loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: LaPorta was one of four Lions pass catchers with at least five grabs. The rookie second-rounder has immediately emerged as a nice complementary target for quarterback Jared Goff, hauling in 10 of his 11 looks thus far. That dependability puts LaPorta's value on the rise ahead of Week 3's matchup versus the Falcons.
Published: Sun, Sep 17 at 2:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Operates as clear No. 1 tight end
LaPorta caught five of five targets for 39 yards during Thursday's 21-20 win over the Chiefs.
Analysis: Although he may not be a significant fantasy factor yet, LaPorta looked like a natural receiver in his first career regular-season game. It could be an issue for fantasy purposes if he has more blocking responsibilities than most stars at the tight end position considering LaPorta only ran a route on about 70 percent of his snaps, but the Iowa product drew a target on about a fifth of them en route to finishing fourth in targets behind Amon-Ra St. Brown (nine), Josh Reynolds (seven) and Marvin…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 7 at 11:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Should contribute in Year 1
LaPorta has made the most of his first-team reps with quarterback Jared Goff this summer and is projected to be an immediate starter as a rookie, according to Eric Woodyard of ESPN.
Analysis: LaPorta having emerged as Detroit's top option at tight end is a notion echoed by Kyle Meinke of Mlive.com, who previously suggested that the second-rounder out of Iowa has claimed the starting job and thus should be a featured weapon in the team's passing game in 2023. While it remains to be seen how much volume LaPorta sees out of the gate, the 6-foot-3, 245-pounder has a chance to make a fantasy splash as a first-year pro if things continue to click with him and Goff as the campaign…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 25 at 12:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Goose egg in first game
LaPorta didn't catch his only target in Friday's 21-16 preseason win over the Giants.
Analysis: LaPorta has been working with the first-team offense in training camp, but the rookie second-round pick failed to make much of an impression in his first NFL action. The tight end will look to get more involved in Detroit's second preseason game against the Jaguars as he looks to earn a prominent role in the offense out of the gate.
Published: Fri, Aug 11 at 9:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Earns first-team spot
LaPorta has already climbed the depth chart and is line to be the Lions' top tight end at the beginning of the regular season, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: The second-round pick worked with backups early in spring practices, but offensive coordinator Ben Johnson confirmed Wednesday that LaPorta has quickly "earned the right" to be in the first-team huddle. LaPorta's rise up the depth chart happened before the start of contact practices, which means a lot can change before Week 1. Even so, the uninspired list of tight end alternatives in Detroit suggests LaPorta is probably the best man for the job. The other options are Brock Wright, James…read more
Published: Wed, Jul 26 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Headed for big role
Lions tight end coach Steve Heiden said that LaPorta is expected to play a big role in the offense from the start of the season, Tim Twentyman of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Detroit's second-round pick has impressed throughout spring practices and minicamp as a do-it-all tight end. While LaPorta will probably have a harder time standing out when the pads come on in training camp this upcoming week, the presence of incumbent starter Brock Wright could at least allow the rookie time to grow into his blocking responsibilities. Since LaPorta may have a shallower learning curve as a receiver, the Iowa product could realistically complement the blocking-proficient Wright…read more
Published: Thu, Jul 20 at 6:35am by Rotowire.com
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