Is Sam LaPorta playing this week? Latest injury update on Lions tight end

The Detroit Lions have a big question mark on the offensive side of the ball ahead of their Week 11 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, as tight end Sam LaPorta is dealing with a shoulder injury that could sideline him this Sunday.

LaPorta was having his best game of the 2024 season in Week 10 against the Houston Texans after tallying three receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown. However, he came down with a shoulder injury in the second half that forced LaPorta's early exit from the contest.

The Iowa product, who is coming off a historic rookie campaign, hasn't been able to practice at all this week due to an AC sprain. His lack of practice participation puts LaPorta's status even more in doubt.

Here's the latest injury update on LaPorta.

Sam LaPorta injury update

While the final injury report has yet to be revealed as of this writing (we'll update this page once it's available), one Lions beat writer does not expect LaPorta to suit up against the Jags on Sunday.

According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, LaPorta didn't practice again on Friday and "indications are Sam LaPorta will miss the Week 11 NFL game after sitting out his third straight practice with a shoulder injury."

LaPorta was considered day-to-day by head coach Dan Campbell earlier in the week and isn't expected to be out long term, so that's the good news.

Even if he was healthy enough to play, it would make sense for Detroit to sit the sophomore tight end just to be cautious. After all, the Lions are sitting pretty at 8-1 and really don't need LaPorta in a matchup against the lowly Jaguars, a team they should beat handily.

Sam LaPorta fantasy football advice

If LaPorta is indeed sidelined for Week 11, that will mean more chances for Brock Wright and Shane Zylstra.

However, for our fantasy football heads out there, neither one is a viable starting option, so you'll have to look elsewhere for a solution. If you must choose one, Wright is the better option.

MORE DETROIT LIONS NEWS

Dan Campbell has funny way of messing with Jake Bates

Aidan Hutchinson inspires awesome name for turkey

Ben Johnson has brutally honest review of Lions' Week 10 offense