NFL draft injury analysis: Justin Joly, TE - NC State
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The Lions could use a TE for insurance in case Sam LaPorta's herniated disc recovery has any setbacks. While the 2nd round seems high given the Lions other needs, it's not out of the question. Justin Joly is a TE candidate projected to go in that range.
Here is the excerpt of my medical report on Joly:
(Ages in parentheses are at start of 2026 season and are factored into the concern level. Injury info and ages based on available public information are unverified and subject to update. Games played data courtesy of sports-reference.com.)
Justin Joly, TE (22) - NC State
Projected round 2. #53 on Jeff Risdon board Feb 19.
Concern level 1/10
- 2025: 12/13 games. Injured left leg (quad strain?) in Game 8, missed next game.
- 2024: 13/13 games
- 2023: 12/12 games
- 2022: 12/12 games
The left leg injury is suspected to be a minor muscle strain, but will need to be investigated to make sure it’s not a joint issue. Otherwise, he has shown perfect reliability and is a very clean prospect.
Joly racked up big numbers in college, finishing with 166 receptions for 1978 yards.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: NFL draft injury analysis: Justin Joly, TE - NC State
