Another week, another set of injuries to discuss. With potentially long-term injuries to a pair of marquee TEs, fantasy managers may want to review this article before they head to the waiver wire this week. 

Key: Position Player, Team | Injury | Projected Return to Play

TE Sam LaPorta, Detroit | Shoulder | Timeline TBD

While connected with Jared Goff for a long 37-yard reception, Sam LaPorta was tackled at the Houston 3rd-yard line. LaPorta slammed his right shoulder into the turf while completing the catch and was removed from the game shortly after. Detroit listed their sophomore TE as questionable to return, but alas he did not log another snap.

SAM LAPORTA HAULS IN THE DOWNFIELD SHOT #OnePride pic.twitter.com/LhTbx4vVWJ

— SuperHawkeyeFan (@superhawkeyefan) November 11, 2024

Currently, there is not any official word on LaPorta's injury but by video, I think an AC joint sprain is possible. An AC joint sprain could mean an extended absence for the star TE. On average NFL skill position players miss >3 weeks and rarely do they not miss any time (80% of the sample of players from 2017 missed at least 1 game). Until we have more clarity, I don't feel comfortable giving an official return-to-play timeline. 

TE Dalton Kincaid, Buffalo | Knee |  Timeline TBD

Dalton Kincaid injured his left knee and attempted to catch a pass. Kincaid was removed from the game briefly before returning with a knee brace. However, Kincaid exited the game for a second time. Afterward, Kincaid mentioned to reporters that he tried to play through the injury but was uncomfortable with how his knee felt. 

Dalton Kincaid on his knee injury sustained during win over the Colts: “Thought I could go then just didn’t feel good enough to run and be able to go out there and protect myself.” Says he doesn’t know the extent of the injury #Bills #BillsMafia pic.twitter.com/mMRQtn5G4t

— alex brasky (@alexbrasky) November 10, 2024

This is another injury situation that is still unclear, but video could be helpful. Kincaid falling on a bent knee is a possible mechanism for a PCL sprain. If confirmed this injury could mean time missed but the exact amount would depend on the severity of the sprain. Some examples of minor PCL sprains are Ezekiel Elliot (2021) and Dalton Schutlz (2022) who missed 0 and 2 weeks respectively. A more serious sprain could result in a similar situation to Puka Nacua this year resulting in 6+ weeks missed to possibly season-ending (given the length of the season).

Dalton Kincaid -

Left knee concern for PCL sprain or patella/bursa irritation.
He returned to the game with a brace on his left knee. pic.twitter.com/aHkXXIpI1t

— Jeff Mueller, PT, DPT (@jmthrivept) November 10, 2024

Buffalo has a bye in Week 12. I think there is a strong possibility that we do not see Kincaid until after the upcoming Bill's break.