The Lions, securing the No. 3 seed in the NFC playoffs after their 30-20 victory over the Vikings, faced setbacks with rookie TE Sam LaPorta’s knee injury. LaPorta sustained a hyperextended knee and a bone bruise, likely sidelining him for a while. This situation hints at the potential arrival of three-time Pro Bowler Zach Ertz to Detroit.
Ertz, who requested release from the Cardinals in November, has been seeking a new team since then. At 33, he brings ample NFL experience and could serve as a suitable replacement until LaPorta fully recovers. His recent stats—148 catches, 1,356 yards, and 10 touchdowns over the last three years—underscore his potential contribution.
Adding to the possibility is Ertz’s familiarity with Detroit’s tight ends coach, Steve Heiden, his former position coach in Arizona. Coach Dan Campbell mentioned that while LaPorta’s injury isn’t severe, the Lions might need alternative options to cover for him, especially with a challenging playoff game against the Rams ahead.
The Rams, boasting one of the league’s top offenses and averaging the seventh-highest total yards per game, pose a significant challenge in the upcoming wild-card round. LaPorta, who had an impressive rookie season with 86 catches, 889 yards, and 10 touchdowns, would have played a crucial role. However, the Lions may turn to Ertz as a stopgap measure in his absence.
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