Carlton Davis broke thumb in Lions practice; Sam LaPorta out with injury vs. Jaguars from

Lions Lose Two Key Players to Injuries in Week 1

Carlton Davis Breaks Thumb, Sam LaPorta Out with Injury

The Detroit Lions have suffered two significant injuries in the first week of the regular season. Cornerback Carlton Davis broke his thumb in practice on Wednesday, August 17th, 2023, and tight end Sam LaPorta is out with an undisclosed injury suffered in the team's 31-23 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, September 11th, 2023. Davis, who was signed by the Lions in free agency this offseason, is expected to miss 4-6 weeks with the injury. He is one of the team's top cornerbacks and his absence will be a major blow to the defense. LaPorta, who was a rookie draft pick last year, is also expected to miss multiple weeks with his injury. He is one of the team's most promising young players and his absence will be felt in the passing game. The Lions are already facing an uphill battle in the NFC North, and these injuries will make it even more difficult for them to compete. They will need to find a way to replace Davis and LaPorta's production if they want to have any chance of making the playoffs.

How the Injuries Will Impact the Lions

The injuries to Davis and LaPorta will have a major impact on the Lions' defense and offense. On defense, Davis's absence will force the Lions to shuffle their lineup. Amani Oruwariye will likely move into Davis's spot at outside cornerback, with Jeff Okudah and Mike Hughes playing on the inside. This is a less experienced group than the Lions had hoped to field, and it could be a liability against some of the more potent passing attacks in the NFL. On offense, LaPorta's absence will leave the Lions without a true pass-catching tight end. T.J. Hockenson was traded to the Vikings in the offseason, and LaPorta was expected to step into the starting role. Now, the Lions will likely have to rely on Brock Wright and Shane Zylstra at the tight end position. Both players are capable, but neither is as dynamic as LaPorta.

What the Lions Can Do to Replace Davis and LaPorta

The Lions will need to find a way to replace the production of Davis and LaPorta if they want to be successful this season. On defense, the Lions could look to sign a veteran cornerback to fill Davis's spot. There are a few good options available on the free agent market, including Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, and Josh Norman. On offense, the Lions could look to trade for a tight end. There are a few teams that have depth at the position, and the Lions could be able to acquire a solid player for a reasonable price. The Lions could also look to their own roster to fill the void left by Davis and LaPorta. Amani Oruwariye has the potential to be a very good cornerback, and he could step into Davis's role and play well. Brock Wright and Shane Zylstra are both capable tight ends, and they could be able to fill LaPorta's role in the passing game.

Conclusion

The injuries to Carlton Davis and Sam LaPorta are a major setback for the Detroit Lions. However, the team still has a lot of talent on its roster, and it is possible that they can overcome these injuries and make a run at the playoffs.