Sam LaPorta returned to Lions practice on Friday, raising hopes that he might be able to play in the Monday Night Football matchup against the Seahawks.
The Detroit Lions are preparing for a critical Monday Night Football showdown against the undefeated Seattle Seahawks (3-0). Seattle has been a tough opponent for Detroit in recent matchups, but the games have all been thrilling, high-scoring affairs. The Lions might receive a boost with the possible return of one of their young receivers for Week 4, following some encouraging injury updates.
Lions tight end Sam LaPorta returned to practice on Friday, as reported by Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press. LaPorta injured his ankle during a hook-and-ladder play featuring Jahmyr Gibbs’ impressive touchdown in Week 3 against the Cardinals. His return to practice hints at the possibility of him suiting up for Monday night’s game against Seattle.
LaPorta did not practice on Thursday, and Lions tight ends coach Steve Heiden mentioned that the final decision on his status would be made by the medical staff. “It’s really up to the doctors,” Heiden said. “If he’s cleared, then he’s out there, ready to go.”
LaPorta, who has been battling injuries this season, including a hamstring issue from preseason, hasn’t quite looked like himself. Now recovering from this ankle injury, he has recorded eight receptions for 94 yards through three games but has yet to score a touchdown.
With a Week 5 bye coming up, the Lions might opt to hold LaPorta out if he’s not fully recovered.
Lions dealing with several injuries heading into Week 4 against the Seahawks
Sam LaPorta’s injury is just the beginning of the Lions’ injury concerns.
The team is grappling with multiple injuries that could affect their Week 4 performance. Defensive lineman Marcus Davenport is out for the season, while linebacker Derrick Barnes is on injured reserve.
Center Frank Ragnow has been ruled out for Week 4, and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, who has yet to play in 2024, missed practice again on Friday.
Several other players are also dealing with injuries. Brian Branch and Alex Anzalone are in concussion protocols, with Anzalone having missed Week 3 against the Cardinals due to his concussion.
Additional Lions players listed on the injury report include Dan Skipper, Alim McNeill, Levi Onwuzurike, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Their opponent, the Seahawks, is also managing several injuries, including rookie Byron Murphy II and other key players on both sides of the ball.
Both teams will be far from full strength for this matchup.
Be the first to comment