When Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta left the sideline on a cart during the Week 3 game against the Arizona Cardinals, the worst was feared. However, his injury wasn't anywhere near as bad as the sighting of the cart sometimes indicates.
LaPorta, who was able to return to the game in the second half, was diagnosed with a sprained ankle, which was great news considering what was initially feared. From there, it wasn't clear if LaPorta would suit up in Week 4.
While we basically got our answer on Friday after LaPorta returned to a full practice, head coach Dan Campbell confirmed on Saturday that LaPorta is good to go.
"That was good to see," Campbell said of LaPorta's return to practice, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. "So he’s bounced back quickly, healed up nicely. So no, he’s good."
Now, LaPorta will look to get his season on track. The young tight end's production has been disappointing after his sensational rookie campaign in 2023. The former second-round pick has just eight receptions for 94 scoreless yards through three contests.
"It's great that we have a really creative offensive coordinator and the offensive coaching staff in general, so I know they're going to find ways to spread the ball around," LaPorta said before Week 3. "Some games, targets might find you. Sometimes, they may not. If I can help contribute with a couple of catches, it's great. If not and we still win, that's awesome."
The Iowa product was well on his way to having his best game of the season in Week 3 before the injury slowed him. We'll see if he can build off that on Monday night against the Seattle Seahawks.
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