Eric Ebron

In his return to the lineup after missing a month with a hamstring injury, rookie tight end Eric Ebron caught a season-high four passes.

(AP Photo)

ALLEN PARK -- Rookie tight ends rarely produce big numbers, but as the No. 10 selection in the 2014 NFL draft, Eric Ebron has still fallen short of even the most measured expectations.

The Detroit Lions' first-round pick has appeared in seven games, missing three with a hamstring strain. In the contests where he's suited up, the impact on the stat sheet has been minimal -- 14 catches, 125 yards one touchdown.

But in his return to action this past weekend against the Arizona Cardinals, Ebron got the start and caught a season-high four passes in 33 snaps. A fifth reception was negated by an offensive pass interference call called against the rookie.

The team anticipates Sunday's performance will be a sign of things to come.

"With him, coming along, he played a lot more comfortable at his position," coach Jim Caldwell said. "I do think, down the stretch, he's going to be able to stretch the field for us from his position. Not only that, but give us some big plays as well."

Explosive plays were part of Ebron's scouting report coming out of North Carolina, but haven't shown up in his repertoire during his first professional season. His longest reception has been 17 yards and just five of his catches have gone for more than 10 yards.

But much like Caldwell, the guy responsible for delivering the ball sees Ebron's impact growing the final six regular season games and beyond.

"I think his role will continue to increase, the healthier he gets, the more games he gets under his belt," Stafford said. "He's a rookie, he's a young kid, but he made some plays last week and we'll continue to look for the same."

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