Lions LB James Houston progressing, but questionable for NFC playoff matchup against Buccaneers

Updated Jan. 19, 2024 4:53 p.m. ET

Associated Press

Lions edge rusher James Houston is progressing in his bid to return from a broken fibula, however a decision has yet to be made on whether he will play when Detroit hosts the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in an NFC divisional playoff game on Sunday.

Houston was listed as questionable after practicing Friday, when coach Dan Campbell said the NFC North champions have yet to determine if he’ll return to the lineup against the Bucs. The linebacker has been sidelined since being injured in Week 2 of the regular season.

“We’ve still got to gauge if we feel like he will be ready,” Campbell said.

“But I know this, he looks a ton better,” the coach added. “I know he wants to go. I mean, who wouldn’t?”

Lions rookie tight end Sam LaPorta (knee) is also listed as questionable after being limited in practice Thursday and Friday. Punt returner and receiver Kalif Raymond (knee) was ruled out for the second straight game.

Meanwhile, the status of Tampa Bay linebacker Shaquil Barrett (ankle) and backup running back Chase Edmonds (toe) is up in the air.

“They’re still questionable, but hopefully trending the right way,” coach Todd Bowles said after practice Friday.

Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield played with sore ribs and through an ankle injury the past two weeks. He was a full participant in practice this week and will start Sunday. Linebacker Yaya Diaby (shoulder) was a full participant Friday and expected to play.

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