1 week Ago By Kennedy Broadwell, Yardbarker
The Detroit Lions are facing an injury concern ahead of their Week 11 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, as tight end Sam LaPorta deals with a shoulder issue. LaPorta, who was having his best game of the season, suffered the injury in the second half. He had caught three passes for 66 yards and a touchdown before being listed as questionable to return.
He didn’t re-enter the game after the injury. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that LaPorta had sprained his AC joint. While the team is hopeful he’ll be ready to play this week, his status remains uncertain.
Campbell noted that LaPorta is considered "day-to-day," with no belief that the injury will be a long-term concern. DC on LaPorta injury update pic.twitter.
com/VRfE36XYrz The Lions' tight ends have largely been used as blockers this season, with the team relying on their contributions to the run game. LaPorta has been more involved in the passing game than his counterparts, but his role remains secondary to other offensive weapons. However, if he’s unable to go, Brock Wright could step up as a receiving option.
While Wright's primary role has been as a blocker, he’s recorded nine receptions for 58 yards and a touchdown this season. Wright’s ability to make plays when called upon was evident in his eight-yard touchdown catch against the Tennessee Titans in Week 8. With the Lions sitting at 8-1 and facing a Jaguars team at the bottom of the AFC South at 2-8, Detroit could afford to rest LaPorta, even if he’s healthy enough to play.
If LaPorta is sidelined, Wright would likely take on a larger role in both blocking and receiving. Additionally, Lions fans could look forward to seeing more of third-year tight end Shane Zylstra , who has yet to record a stat in 2024 after missing the entire 2023 season due to a season-ending knee injury. Zylstra did have a solid 2022 campaign with 11 receptions, 60 yards and four touchdowns, but his role has been limited this season, with appearances in just the Lions' last four games.
However, Zylstra’s experience and past production could make him a potential option if needed..
