Is Sam LaPorta playing? Lions TE held without a catch in first half, worrying fans and fantasy owners

Sam LaPorta entered his season season in the NFL already as one of the best tight ends in the game.

In his rookie season, LaPorta broke out as a top weapon for QB Jared Goff and the Lions' offense. That was expected to continue in the new season, but so far, the tight end has been relatively quiet.

In Detroit's matchup vs. Tampa Bay on Sunday, that trend continued.

Here's what to know about LaPorta's status in Week 2 and his involvement in the Lions' passing offense so far in the game.

Is Sam LaPorta playing in Week 2 vs. the Buccaneers?

Yes, LaPorta is playing for the Lions in Week 2. However, he was held without a catch in the first half of the game.

In the early third quarter, Goff was up to 160 passing yards. Most of them went to WRs Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, while RBs David Montgomery and Jahymr Gibbs also had catches.

Lions vs. Buccaneers remained a close contest at halftime, though, so LaPorta could get more involved for Detroit as the game progresses.

Sam LaPorta stats today

The only stat LaPorta has recorded vs. Tampa Bay so far is one target from Goff.

In Week 1, he had four receptions for 45 yards vs. the Rams. It's been a quiet start to the season for the second-year tight end, but that should change over time based on LaPorta's production as a rookie in 2023.