Lions Rumors: Zach Ertz Won't Be Promoted to Roster for NFC Title Game vs. 49ers

Despite some hope Zach Ertz would be able to contribute in the NFC Championship Game less than one week after being signed, the Detroit Lions aren't expected to add the veteran tight end to their 53-man roster.

Per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Lions won't activate Ertz off their practice squad for Sunday's showdown with the San Francisco 49ers.

Ertz agreed to a deal with the Lions to join their practice squad on Monday.

There was some hope that Ertz would be able to learn enough of the playbook and get physically ready to potentially contribute against the 49ers.

Head coach Dan Campbell told reporters on Wednesday that Ertz was in the building and in good physical shape

"It's just a matter of: 'Is this the week to use him?'" Campbell added.

Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has been playing through a hyperextended knee and bone bruise that he suffered in the regular-season finale against the Minnesota Vikings. He progressed from not practicing on Wednesday to being a full participant on Friday.

Despite the injury, LaPorta has been on the field for all but 20 offensive snaps in Detroit's first two playoff games. He led the team with nine receptions for 65 yards in last week's win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Ertz became a free agent on Nov. 30 after being released by the Arizona Cardinals at his request. The 33-year-old appeared in seven games before being placed on injured reserve due to a quadriceps injury suffered in Week 7 against the Seattle Seahawks.

If the Lions defeat the 49ers, they could choose to activate Ertz for the Super Bowl. The three-time Pro Bowler had 187 yards and one touchdown on 27 receptions during the regular season.