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NFL insider suggests Lions sign Pro Bowl tight end to help while LaPorta is out

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Mike Payton | Last updated Jan 7, 2024 7:27 PM ET

The Detroit Lions put in all the work they needed to in order to make sure they had the best possible chance to get the second seed going into the playoffs. Unfortunately they may have lost stud rookie tight end Sam LaPorta for some time.

It doesn't look like it's going to be something that's season ending, but signs are pointing to the possibility of LaPorta at least missing the Lions first round playoff matchup. The other problem is that Brock Wright has been dealing with injuries as well. What do the Lions do? NFL Network's Tom Pelissero has an interesting idea that just might work.

With Sam LaPorta injured, it could make sense for the #Lions to bring in veteran TE Zach Ertz.

Ertz’s position coach in Arizona last year, Steve Heiden, now coaches Detroit’s tight ends. Rare to have a veteran with Ertz’s experience available to plug and play in the playoffs … pic.twitter.com/ly2aCXoRen
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 7, 2024

The three time Pro Bowler would be an interesting option for the Lions and has Pelissero mentions, he has a history with Lions tight ends coach Steve Heiden. That familiarity could get this move done.

The 33-year-old tight end had a pretty nice 2022 season with 47 receptions for 406 yards and four touchdowns. This season he had racked up 27 receptions for 187 yards and a touchdown before he and the Cardinals came to a mutual parting of ways after Ertz asked for his release and was granted it.

Ertz did not retire after the release and said he plans to play and wants to go to a team that has a chance to contend. Here's a perfect scenario for him. The Lions have a chance to contend and they are in need of some tight end help. We'll see soon enough if this is something the Lions are actually interested in.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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