Detroit Lions DVOA, Stats, & NFL Rankings

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (knee) exited during the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. He was carted to the locker room and is officially questionable to return. LaPorta's foot seemed to snag the ground while he was being tackled, which led to his knee hyperextending. It was a concerning sight for the young playmaker, who just minutes earlier set the rookie tight end record for receptions with his 10th touchdown. With Brock Wright (hip) also sidelined, the Lions will turn to James Mitchell as their top tight end.

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ronnie Bell is expected to get increased playing time in a Week 18 meaningless home matchup versus the Los Angeles Rams. Having locked up the No. 1 seed last week, the 49ers have elected to rest quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey (calf). Head coach Kyle Shanahan hasn't divulged a specific personnel plan for other positions, but it stands to reason that receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel may be protected to some degree. Bell seems to be positioned to benefit the most as Jauan Jennings (concussion) is out and Bell is the only other 49er wideout with a touchdown this season, having received one of his two touchdowns in Week 16 from Darnold. That being said, Ray-Ray McCloud, Willie Snead IV, or even Chris Conley could end up being the sneaky plays. Bell would be a risk and is not recommended for lineups in Week 18 championships, but if worth a DFS look if the price is right.

Detroit Lions tight end Brock Wright (hip) missed all three practices this week and has officially been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. After playing the first 14 games this season, Wright has now missed three consecutive weeks, leaving some questions about his availability for the playoffs. Standout rookie Sam LaPorta will remain the top option at tight end, ranking as a solid mid-range TE1 in most fantasy football leagues.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams (ankle, illness) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. This news comes as no surprise considering Williams missed all three practices this week. His absence should allow Josh Reynolds and Kalif Raymond to earn more snaps alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown. Of the group, St. Brown is the only one who should be started in all fantasy leagues. Reynolds and Raymond both rank as risky FLEX plays.

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta was listed on this week's injury report with an ankle injury, but he's cleared to go and will look to finish his spectacular rookie season on a high note. The second-round pick has hauled in 81 of his 113 targets for 860 yards and nine touchdowns. Those numbers are almost unheard of for rookie tight ends, and he's arguably been the best player at the position in 2023. Needless to say, he remains a must-start and strong DFS option against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18. Although Minnesota has been stingy against tight ends, he's virtually matchup-proof.