The Detroit Lions could be missing an important offensive player in the playoffs as a result of a knee injury. Sam LaPorta, a rookie tight end who had recently broken the record for most receptions in a single season by a rookie at his position, was taken off the field in a cart during the second quarter. Although at first it was uncertain when he would come back, he was later declared unable to return. This injury happened when LaPorta caught a 5-yard pass on third down and his left foot seemed to get caught in the ground during the tackle.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, LaPorta suffered a hyperextended knee and a bone bruise after the game, which will probably lead to him missing some playing time. Lions head coach Dan Campbell indicated that the injury was not as severe as it appeared, but it was still not good news. Despite having already secured the NFC North, the Lions had little motivation to play their best on Sunday. If they had beaten the Minnesota Vikings and the Dallas Cowboys had lost to the lowly Washington Commanders, the Lions could have obtained the No. 2 seed in the NFC. However, it was more likely that they would end up as the No. 3 seed.
As previously mentioned, LaPorta caught his 82nd pass of the year, setting a new record, during the first quarter as he scored a 2-yard touchdown. Throughout the day, he made four additional catches, bringing his total for the season to 86 receptions, 889 yards, and 10 touchdowns.
LaPorta, a draft pick from Iowa, emerged as a solid performer for the Lions this season, recording at least five receptions in 10 games. This rapid progress led to him taking over from the experienced tight end T.J. Hockenson, who the Lions traded to the Vikings in the previous year.
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