The Detroit Lions have been preparing for a massive NFC showdown as they play the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football, and all hands must be on deck in what could be a potential conference championship preview. Having said that, a completely healthy lineup is a pipedream.
It's Week 11, so several players have been battling injuries, and tight end Sam LaPorta is a massive one for the Lions. Head coach Dan Campbell spoke to the media on Friday morning and revealed that he doesn't expect LaPorta to practice due to a back injury, leaving his availability up in the air.
Considering how LaPorta has gone a full week without practicing, it's safe to say his outlook for Sunday night couldn't be any more concerning.
- Update (Nov. 14, 3:59 p.m. ET): ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that Sam LaPorta has officially been ruled out for Week 11 vs. Eagles.
Sam LaPorta’s Status for Week 11 Up in the Air
Friday's update isn't ideal, as LaPorta has been a non-participant in practice more often than not lately. Not being able to step on the practice field shows the pain has been significant and puts a massive question mark on his ability to play.
Whether Campbell's staff feels comfortable letting LaPorta play without any practice is a question that will need to be answered. Of course, this isn't what the Lions want ahead of this huge game in which they're already 2.5-point road underdogs to the Eagles, per FanDuel Sportsbook.
LaPorta has been able to play in every game this season and has been productive. The Iowa product is second on the team in both catches (40) and receiving yards (489) with three touchdowns. He provides this offense with an athletic pass catcher who also plays a big role as a run blocker.
Although it would be a loss not having your star tight end out there, the Lions must consider the long term. They are seeking to make a deep postseason run this year, and LaPorta is a player who will play a role in that. If he makes this injury any worse, it could extend his potential absence.
While there hasn't been an indication of whether he'll miss an extended period of time, back injuries are tricky. They tend to continue flaring up if they aren't given the appropriate time to heal.
Based on how LaPorta feels on Friday will paint a clearer picture of whether he'll play against the Eagles on Sunday night. If he can't play, the Lions will lean on fellow Brock Wright and Ross Dwelley in this contest, and that's without mentioning how Anthony Firkser could be called up from the practice squad. Detroit also has an explosive collection of playmakers that include Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs, and David Montgomery.
In other words, the Lions should be able to handle LaPorta's absence if he's forced to miss Sunday's action. The only real concern will come if his injury bleeds into next week and beyond. Then, it might be time to hit the panic button.
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