Detroit Lions camp preview: LaPorta injury drove home his value, but need for insurance
Allen Park — Maybe not fully appreciated at the time of his injury, Sam LaPorta was on pace to threaten some of the production marks from his record-breaking rookie season.
Through nine games, the Detroit Lions’ third-year tight end was fifth among his position with 489 receiving yards, putting him on track for more than 900 on the season, which would have bested the 889 he posted during his debut campaign.
Barring a late surge, LaPorta likely would have fallen short of his 2023 reception and touchdown tallies, but that was offset by better per-reception production and improved blocking, although the latter is more difficult to quantify.
The larger point is his absence down the stretch was glaring. Detroit’s tight ends combined for just 117 yards from Weeks 11-18, led by Anthony Firkser, who wasn’t employed by an NFL team between May 1-November 11.
That total ranked last in the NFL, by nearly half the next-worst team. And, predictably, the consistency of the offense also tapered off, with the unit being held under 20 points three times the final eight games.
Needless to say, the Lions both desperately need LaPorta back this season and required an upgrade to the team’s depth, which they believe they secured by signing veteran Tyler Conklin.
With that situation explained, let’s lay out the questions facing the group heading into training camp later this month.