Fauria Says He Can Be Used Outside Of Red Zone: 'My Talent Shouldn't Be Pigeonholed'

By Ashley Dunkak
@AshleyDunkak

CBS DETROIT - After a week of full participation in practices leading up to Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals, tight end Joseph Fauria, who missed six games with an ankle injury, played just four snaps for the Detroit Lions.

Before he suffered the injury, which he said happened while he chased his puppy down the stairs of his home, Fauria had played 29 snaps against the New York Jets and 25 snaps each against the Carolina Panthers and the Green Bay Packers.

If Fauria knew why he played so sparingly Sunday, he did not offer an explanation Monday, nor did he seek one from coaches.

"It doesn't warrant an explanation," Fauria said. "That's not their job to give me an explanation or me to expect an explanation. I've just got to be ready when my name is called."

The tight end - who become a fan favorite in his rookie season of 2013 for his creative touchdown dances - said he does not think his lack of opportunities stemmed from Detroit's struggles to get into the red zone, where Fauria has been used often.

"In the beginning of the year I was playing plenty outside the red zone," Fauria said. "I don't think my talent should be pigeonholed. I didn't play, I didn't play, but I'm ready to play when my name is called."

Fauria did not admit to frustration but essentially acknowledged he wants to play.

"As a competitor, you're expecting some things out of you," Fauria said. "Not frustrated, just ready when my name is called."

He did not directly answer a question about how much his ankle issue might be limiting his role.

"I'm out there, I'm suited up, and I'm ready to play," Fauria said. "Just ready when my name's called. If it's not, it's up to the higher-ups."