Description: Lions running back Reggie Bush says the Detroit offense is similar to the Saints team he played with from 2006-10, according to a ProFootballTalk report.
Insight: Bush is an excellent pass receiver and should fit in well with a team that passed 740 times in 2012 (46.2 per game). He's also was able to stay on the field over the past two season which made him a viable fansty asset. With a current fantasyfootballcalculator.com ADP of 24.3, fantasy owners seem to like his move to Detroit. He had an ADP of 47.7 last summer.
Description: Former 49ers kicker David Akers has been signed by the Detroit Lions to replace long-time kicker Jason Hanson.
Insight: Akers was the top fantasy kicker after booting 44 field goals in 2011-12, but slumped last season, missing nine of 38 field goal attempts. He should find kicking indoors a boon to his accuracy and could once again be a top fantasy kicker.
Description: Detroit head coach Jim Schwartz says running backs Joique Bell and Mikel Leshoure will still be part of the Lions offense, according to a report from detroitlions.com, but we don't see how.
Insight: Bush figures to be the starter and the pass receiver and Leshoure should get the short yardage and goal line work. Barring injury, that obviously would leave Bell, who caught 52 balls last season, out in the cold.
Description: The Lions have signed running back Reggie Bush to a four-year, $16 million contract, according to Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com.
Insight: Bush seems like a perfect fit for a team who threw the ball 46.3 times per game last season, over four times more than any other team. Bush played 31 of a possible 32 games and put up 2,660 yards from scrimmage during his time with Miami.
Description: The Lions released disgruntled wide receiver Titus Young on Monday.
Insight: It's not surprising considering some of the erratic behavior Young has exhibited both on and off the field during his tenure in Detroit. Though Young was a major fantasy bust in 2012 (33 catches, 383 yards, four TD), he's certainly talented enough to be a solid contributor down the road if he can ever get his head straightened out.
Description: Wide receiver Titus Young is unhappy with his role in the Lions' offense and suggested that he wouldn't mind if the team released him.
Insight: Earlier in the week he tweeted that he needed the football more before taking it a step further on Friday: "If y'all going to cut me let me go. I'm tired of all the threats." It's tough to envision Young staying with the Lions. Young had a solid rookie campaign in 2011 (607 yards, six TD) but regressed in his second season, hauling in just 33 catches for 383 yards.
Description: It may be the end of the line for Detroit running back Jahvid Best. Most expect his NFL career is over due to his concussion problems. Best hasn't played a game since 2011.
Insight: Best was a nice speed back when healthy and the Lions don't have that type of player on their roster at this time. They used Mikel Leshoure and Joique Bell this season, but it would not be surprising if they selected a back with quickness in the upcoming April draft.
Description: The Bears were Calvin Johnson's kryptonite this season. In 14 games against other opponents the Lions wideout averaged 133 receiving yards per game but in his two contests against Chicago, he was limited to only 51.5 yards per game.
Insight: The talented duo of Peanut Tillman and Tim Jennings caused plenty of problems for opposing receivers in 2012 so it's no surprise that Megatron had two of his worst games against them. Johnson finished with 214 points in ESPN leagues this season, the most of any receiver in football. Chicago's Brandon Marshall came in second at 210 with Dez Bryant a distant third (201).
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson could not make it two record-setting weeks in a row Sunday. He failed to reach the 2,000-yard plateau.
Insight: Johnson broke Jerry Rice's single-season receiving yardage record in Week 16 while also setting the record for most consecutive 100-yard games. That streak was snapped Sunday when he had five catches for 72 yards, giving him 1,964 yards on 122 receptions with five touchdowns this season.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure rushed for 57 yards on 15 carries Sunday against the Bears but failed to reach the end zone.
Insight: Leshoure's value was entirely tied to his ability to score touchdowns. After rushing for 100 yards in his season debut, Leshoure didn't exceed 84 yards the rest of the season despite receiving at least 10 carries in every game. He'll finish with 798 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 215 carries in 14 games.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford came up short in his quest to reach 5,000 passing yards for the second straight season. His 272 yards give him 4,967 for the season.
Insight: Stafford took 727 pass attempts to get there, the most in one season in NFL history. Stafford will finish a disappointing season with 24 total touchdowns (20 passing, four rushing), 17 fewer than last season.
Description: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew will return for Sunday's season finale versus the Bears. Pettigrew hasn't played since December 9th because of a high ankle sprain.
Insight: Pettigrew only practiced once this week so it's a bit of a surprise that he's taking the field on Sunday. He's probably not close to 100 percent, which makes him a risky play in a championship week.
Description: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew returned to practice Friday for the first time since suffering a high-ankle sprain in Week 14. SOURCE: Tim Twentyman, DetroitLions.com
Insight: Pettigrew (57-556-3) has missed the last three games and is questionable for Sunday's game against the Bears. The 4-11 Lions have no incentive to push Pettigrew for the final game of the season.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had a typical 2012 performance Saturday night against Atlanta -- 443 yards, zero touchdowns, one pick.
Insight: The yardage has been there this year for Stafford (4,695) but the touchdowns haven't. After tossing multiple touchdown passes in 12 games last year, Stafford has only done it four times this season. With one game remaining, Stafford is only seven passing attempts away from passing Drew Bledsoe's 691 for most single-season attempts in NFL history. He needs 15 attempts in the final game to become the first player in NFL history with 700 passing attempts in one season.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson made history Saturday night against Atlanta. His 225 yards on 11 catches pushed him past Jerry Rice for the most receiving yards ever for a single season.
Insight: Johnson is at 1,892 yards and he still has one game to go. With 108 yards next week against the Bears, he'll become the first wideout to reach 2,000 yards in a season.
Description: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew is inactive Saturday against the Falcons.
Insight: Pettigrew is dealing with a high-ankle sprain and is unlikely to return in Week 17 either. Tony Scheffler and Will Heller will handle TE duties.
Description: Detroit wideout Calvin Johnson can become the second receiver in NFL history to amass 1,800 yards in a season if he reels in 123 yards Saturday against Atlanta.
Insight: Megatron needs 182 more yards to pass Jerry Rice for the most yards in a single season. Atlanta's defense ranks 17th in passing yards allowed, so this should be a favorable matchup for Johnson.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure (calf) was limited in practice Thursday but should be fine to play in Saturday's game against the Falcons. SOURCE: Tim Twentyman, DetroitLions.com
Insight: Leshoure has dealt with a variety of nicks and scrapes this season and has been limited in practice plenty of times but hasn't missed a game since returning from a two-game suspension in Week 3. Leshoure hasn't rushed for many yards (57.9 per game) but does have eight rushing touchdowns. He's scored in four of the last five games.
Description: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who missed Sunday's game against Arizona because of a high ankle sprain, missed Wednesday's practice.
Insight: High ankle sprains can sometimes take close to a month to heal. With the Lions already out of the playoffs, Detroit might play it safe. The team has a couple of solid backup tight ends in Tony Scheffler and Will Heller.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford was picked off three times Sunday against Arizona and failed to throw a touchdown for the third time this season.
Insight: The yardage has been there this year for Stafford but the touchdowns haven't. After throwing for 41 touchdowns in 2011, the Lions QB has just 21 this year (17 passing, four rushing).
Description: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew is out for Sunday's game against Arizona because of a high ankle sprain.
Insight: High ankle sprains can sometimes take close to a month to heal. With the Lions already out of the playoffs, Detroit might play it safe and keep Pettigrew out the rest of the season.
Description: Detroit defensive tackle Nick Fairley (shoulder) is doubtful to play Sunday against the Cardinals. SOURCE: Detroit Free Press
Insight: Fairley suffered a shoulder injury with two minutes to play Sunday night against the Packers. The former first-round pick has emerged as a reliable force next to Ndamukong Suh this season after Corey Williams had knee surgery, picking up 35 tackles and 5.5 sacks with two forced fumbles. Even without Fairley, Detroit's D/ST is still a reliable plug-in option against the inept Cardinals.
Description: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (57-556) has a high-ankle sprain and is doubtful for Sunday's game. SOURCE: Detroit Free Press
Insight: A high-ankle sprain is usually a four-week injury so Pettigrew could miss the rest of the regular season. Tony Scheffler is a sleeper tight end option for the semi-finals of the fantasy playoffs.
Description: Lions' tight end Brandon Pettigrew is questionable for Sunday's game against Arizona due to an injured ankle.
Insight: Pettigrew didn't catch a pass against Green Bay while tight ends Tony Scheffler caught three balls for 20 yards and a TD (10 targets) and third string Will Heller caught four for 21 yards. Matthew Stafford likes to throw to his TE and if Pettigrew is healthy he's his favorite target outside of Calvin Johnson.
Description: The Lions have placed DT Corey Williams (knee) on injured reserve.
Insight: Williams went under the knife earlier this season and has missed six games. Nick Fairley, a 2011 first-rounder, has emerged with 35 tackles and 5.5 sacks this season so it's doubtful Williams will return to a prominent role with the Lions next year.
Description: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew is questionable for Sunday's game against Arizona due to an injured ankle.
Insight: Pettigrew didn't catch a pass against Green Bay while tight ends Tony Scheffler caught three balls for 20 yards and a TD and third string Will Heller caught four for 21 yards. Matthew Stafford likes to throw to his TE and if Pettigrew is healthy he's his favorite target outside of Calvin Johnson.
Description: Detroit wideout Kris Durham, just signed off the practice squad, was in on 78 of 84 offensive plays. He caught four of nine targets for 54 yards.
Insight: Durham has a history with Matthew Stafford (at Georgia) which could explain why he saw so much more time than starter Mike Thomas who was only on the field for 17 plays.
Description: Lions receiver Ryan Broyles, who was diagnosed with a torn right ACL, has already had surgery on the knee and the speed at which this took place will give him the best chance to return next season in a timely manner.
Insight: Broyles was just starting to perform as the starter opposite Calvin Johnson and if he can come back healthy he has the talent to be a very good No. 2 receiver.
Description: Detroit signed wideout Kris Durham off the practice squad.
Insight: With Ryan Broyles suffering a season-ending knee injury and Titus Young sent home once again and not an option, the Lions have added Durham as the team's No. 4 receiver behind Cavlin Johnson, Mike Thomas and Brian Robiskie. Durham doesn't have any fantasy value unless the receiving corps suffers more injuries.
Description: Detroit Lions receiver Mike Thomas is expected to start opposite Calvin Johnson after Ryan Broyles suffered a season-ending knee injury in Sunday's game.
Insight: Thomas has yet to catch more than four balls in a game this season, but it wasn't that long ago, 2010 in fact, that he caught 66 balls for 820 yards and four touchdowns.
Description: Lions receiver Ryan Broyles has been diagnosed with a torn right ACL and is finished for the season.
Insight: Tough break for fantasy owners who were ready to watch Broyles perform as the starter opposite Calvin Johnson. Coach Jim Schwartz made it a point to note that Titus Young would not get his job back. Expect Mike Thomas to start.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson tore apart the Colts defense for 171 receiving yards on Sunday.
Insight: Jerry Rice's coveted receiving yards record is very much within Megatron's reach. If Johnson can average 105 yards a game the rest of the way, he'll equal Rice's record. That doesn't seem too difficult considering Johnson has averaged 158 yards a game in his last five outings.
Description: Detroit tight end Tony Scheffler has passed his concussion test and is now back in the game.
Insight: Scheffler was involved in a helmet-to-helmet collision in the first half but it looks like he was able to escape without suffering a major injury. So far Scheffler has three grabs for 55 yards as the Lions lead Indianapolis 30-21 at the end of the third quarter.
Description: Lions receiver Ryan Broyles left Sunday's game against Indianapolis with an apparent right knee injury. He walked to the locker room without a noticeable limp. His return is questionable.
Insight: Broyles, who caught six balls for 126 yards in his last game, was primed for a big game with Titus Young and Brian Robiskie inactive.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young, who apparently sabotaged the Lions' offense in Week 11 on purpose by intentionally lining up in the wrong spot, is inactive for Week 13.
Insight: No teammate will ever trust a player who hurts the team on purpose. Time to drop him from your roster. Ryan Broyles had a very good game with Young sidelined, catching six balls for 126 yards.
Description: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew is questionable for Sunday's game against Indianapolis. His knees have been acting up for the last month and he could use some time off.
Insight: We can see the effect its had on his production. Over the past four games Pettigrew has caught 16 balls for 139 yards (34.7 ypg). In his first seven games he averaged 53.4 ypg. Neither is great, but the last four weeks are unworthy of a start in fantasy lineups.
Description: Lions' second-year receiver Titus Young apparently sabotaged the Lions' offense in Week 11 on purpose by intentionally lining up in the wrong spot, according to center Dominic Raiola.
Insight: That's all I need to know to drop him. No teammate will ever trust a player who hurts the team on purpose. Ryan Broyles had a very good game with Young sidelined, catching six balls for 126 yards.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure (ankle) returned to practice Thursday. SOURCE: Anwar Richardson, MLive.com
Insight: Leshoure didn't practice Wednesday but appears set to play Sunday against the Colts. It's a favorable matchup for a player who has scored five touchdowns in the last four games.
Description: Detroit defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh has been fined $30,000 for kicking Texans quarterback Matt Schaub in the groin during a game on Thanksgiving.
Insight: Suh claims he didn't do it on purpose but we doubt that claim would hold up in a lie detector test. He's had a decent season so far with 26 tackles and 4.5 sacks in 11 games.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure did not practice on Wednesday though we aren't aware of an injury.
Insight: Leshoure saw 14 touches on Thanksgiving against Houston, but didn't play in the overtime. The situation will need to be watched. Joique Bell would be the starter if Leshoure doesn't suit up.
Description: Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh will not be suspended for a Thanksgiving Day incident in which Suh appeared to intentionally swing his foot into Texans quarterback Matt Schaub's groin. SOURCE: Greg Aiello, NFL PR
Insight: Suh has been at the center of plenty of controversial plays in his three-year career, including intentionally stomping a Packers' offensive lineman last Thanksgiving. There's no way to prove intent on this year's incident so the league cannot suspend him without a fight from the NFLPA, but that doesn't mean a fine won't be handed down.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young should be allowed to return from his one-game team-imposed suspension and play against Indianapolis.
Insight: Ryan Broyles had a very good game with Young sidelined, catching six balls for 126 yards. Our guess is that Young doesn't get his starting spot back.
Description: Lions receiver Ryan Broyles saw 11 targets opposite Calvin Johnson Thursday and managed to haul in six of them for 126 yards.
Insight: We expected Johnson to get a ton of targets with Johnathan Joseph out. That happened, but there were still plenty left over for Broyles and Brandon Pettigrew (15 targets, eight receptions, 74 yards) as Detroit threw the ball 61 times. Broyles will likely maintain his status as the No. 2 receiver even when Titus Young is activated.
Description: Detroit wideout Calvin Johnson hauled in eight receptions on 17 targets for 140 yards and a touchdown Thursday versus Houston.
Insight: Texans CB Johnathan Joseph was inactive so we expected Johnson to see even more looks than he normally gets. Johnson showed why he's the No. 1 fantasy receiver by far with another elite line.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 441 yards on 31-of-61 passing with two touchdowns and zero interceptions on Thursday against the Texans.
Insight: Stafford has alternated good and bad fantasy efforts the past five weeks. He should end that cycle with a favorable matchup in Week 13 versus Indianapolis after an 11-day break.
Description: Lions receiver Ryan Broyles will start Thursday's game versus Houston with Titus Young inactive due to a team-mandated suspension.
Insight: Mike Thomas was expected to start opposite Calvin Johnson but Broyles will get the nod instead. The rookie is still a risky fantasy play since Johnson will likely see a ton of targets with Houston CB Johnathan Joseph (hamstring) inactive.
Description: Detroit wideout Calvin Johnson stayed hot with 143 receiving yards and a touchdown Sunday in a loss to Green Bay, but is dealing with a thumb injury to go along with his sore knee.
Insight: Nothing is slowing him down over the past three games (479 yards) and we don't expect this injury to hamper him too much. He'll like post another 100-yard game against Houston.
Description: Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is questionable for Thursday's game against Houston with a knee injury.
Insight: Facing Texans' running back Arian Foster without Ndamukong Suh in the middle of the defensive line is a recipe for disaster ... or success if you are Foster's fantasy owner.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young has been sent home for the week by coach Jim Schwartz and he will be inactive for the team's Thanksgiving game against the Texans. SOURCE: ProFootballTalk.com
Insight: Schwartz said Young has been putting himself above the team. The receiver was reportedly responsible for sparking an argument between Lions OC Scott Linehan and receivers coach Shawn Jefferson during Sunday's game versus Green Bay. Young also had two penalties in the game and caused a third when QB Matthew Stafford had to yell to him about lining up in the wrong spot. Lineman Gosder Cherilus thought Stafford had signaled for the snap and false started. Young has had major attitude problems during his one-plus years in the NFL and he could find himself behind Ryan Broyles on the depth chart when he returns to the team.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young was benched late in Sunday's game against Green Bay. He was targeted six times, but had just one reception for 24 yards.
Insight: Young appeared to have an argument with both his receivers coach and the offensive coordinator. We don't know if it was a heat-of-the-battle one-series benching or a permanent change in status. Stay tuned.
Description: Detroit wideout Calvin Johnson stayed hot with 143 receiving yards and a touchdown Sunday in a loss to Green Bay.
Insight: After Johnson's rough outing against Seattle in Week 8, we assumed this just wasn't going to be his year. Boy were we wrong. He now has 479 receiving yards in his last three contests and has scored a touchdown in back-to-back weeks after finding the end zone just once during the first eight games of the season. Megatron and the Lions will face the 9-1 Texans on Thanksgiving.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure followed up his three touchdown effort a week ago with just 43 yards on 13 carries.
Insight: Leshoure took advantage of favorable circumstances in Week 9 and really cannot be counted on to produce anything more than flex numbers in deeper leagues going forward.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson doesn't seem to be limited at all by his knee injury. The receiver grabbed 12 balls for 207 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Vikings.
Insight: You can probably disregard all future injury updates on Johnson. If he plays, he's the top fantasy receiver, and he's played every game this season. Megatron is now averaging more yards per game than last season (108.2 to 105.1). A huge second half is in order.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had his second three-TD performance in his last three games Sunday against the Vikings.
Insight: Stafford threw for 329 yards, his fifth 300-yard game this season. An uneven first half will be largely forgotten if Stafford can help fantasy owners down the stretch.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young (knee) practiced for the first time this week on Friday and is active for Sunday against Minnesota.
Insight: Young was one of the most added players last week after posting nine catches for 100 yards and two scores in Week 8. He disappointed his new owners with a 20-yard, two-catch game. It appears that Young and rookie Ryan Broyles will both continue to produce inconsistent numbers opposite Calvin Johnson.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young (knee) practiced for the first time this week on Friday.
Insight: Young was one of the most added players last week and posting nine catches for 100 yards and two scores in Week 8. He disappointed his new owners with a 20-yard, two catch game. It appears that Young and rookie Ryan Broyles will both continue to produce inconsistent numbers.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) returned to practice Friday.
Insight: Megatron has been playing with a nagging knee injury but was never in danger of missing Sunday's game. He thinks the knee will affect him all season, but he's still a top-five wideout, averaging 95.9 yards per game.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) has had an increase in dropped passes recently, which he attributes to lingering nerve damage down both arms from the Week 4 hit that gave him a concussion. SOURCE: Paula Pasche, Oakland Press
Insight: "Actually I had some never damage that was kind of messing up my grip a little," Johnson said. "Not to blame that, but I think the concussion could have had something to do with some of that damage." Megatron is playing with a nagging knee injury that he thinks will affect him all season. However, he's still a top-five wideout, averaging 95.9 yards per game.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young (knee) hasn't practiced this week.
Insight: We were high on Young coming off his Week 8 effort (9-100-2) but he disappointed last week with a 2-20 line. He's a risky WR3 this week against the Vikings, especially with a balky knee.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson went to Matthew Stafford and the coaching staff before Sunday's game to work out a strategy that would allow him to play with his injured knee, according to Anwar S. Richardson of mlive.com. It apparently worked as Johnson caught seven balls for 129 yards.
Insight: Johnson went on to say that the issue was likely to be ongoing. Worrisome thought for fantasy owners, but it appears the Lions are learning to live within Johnson's physical limitations.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson bounced back from a subpar outing in Week 8 by collecting 129 yards on seven catches Sunday against the Jaguars.
Insight: Johnson has now gone over 100 yards receiving in four out of his eight games this season. He still has just one touchdown, which is shocking considering he had 16 scores in 2011.
Description: Lions second-round selection Ryan Broyles could see more targets if Calvin Johnson is hurting.
Insight: Titus Young and Broyles have both seen an uptick in production since Nate Burleson's season-ending injury. Young exploded last weekend, but this week both could see more targets if the Lions choose to use Megatron as more of a decoy to protect him.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young broke out with nine receptions for 100 yards and two touchdowns Sunday against the Seahawks, but was limited in practice with a knee injury.
Insight: With Nate Burleson out for the year we expect Young to continue to produce, particularly with Calvin Johnson hurting this Sunday. Ryan Broyles could also see more targets.
Description: Lions safety Louis Delmas is inactive for Sunday's game against Jacksonville.
Insight: The Lions defense/special teams was a top-five fantasy option in 2011-12 with 41 sacks, 34 turnovers and seven defensive TDs, but has been a shell of that this season. In addition to Delmas, safety Amari Spievey will also be missing. Jacksonville receivers could actually have fantasy value this week.
Description: Detroit wideout Calvin Johnson is listed as active for the Week 9 game against Jacksonville.
Insight: Johnson has been struggling with a knee injury and didn't practice all week. Though there is some speculation that Johnson's reps could be limited, fantasy owners shouldn't be afraid to start him against Jacksonville's weak secondary.
Description: Megatron alert: Detroit wideout Calvin Johnson is expected to start Sunday afternoon's game against the Jaguars according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen.
Insight: Johnson has been struggling with a knee injury and didn't practice all week. Though there is some speculation that Johnson's reps could be limited, fantasy owners shouldn't be afraid to start him against Jacksonville's weak secondary.
Description: If injured Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is active Sunday against Jacksonville he might only play on third downs. SOURCE: Pro Football Weekly.
Insight: Johnson has been bothered by a sore knee and is considered a game-time decision. His availability will influence the amount of targets Titus Young sees on Sunday.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) was downgraded to questionable for Sunday after missing Friday's practice.
Insight: Johnson hasn't practiced at all this week but the Lions' official website said Thursday that the lack of practice time was part of a new regimen to ensure his health for gameday. We still expect him to play Sunday in a favorable matchup versus the Jaguars despite the questionable tag.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) has yet to practice this week, but says that's just part of the regimen to get him ready for Sunday, according to the team's official website.
Insight: "That's the main thing, just being ready for Sunday," he said Thursday. Johnson hasn't missed a game this season despite sitting out some practices with a sore knee. Keep starting him without question.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure, who sat out the final quarter and a half Sunday against Seattle, was absent from practice Wednesday, according to beat writer Tim Twentyman.
Insight: Coach Jom Schwartz is denying any injury, but until Leshoure is seen back out on the practice fields fantasy owners should be concerned.
Description: The Detroit Lions have acquired receiver Mike Thomas from the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Insight: Thomas was a decent fantasy option two years ago when he posted 66 receptions, 820 yards and four touchdowns but he slipped to 44 for 415 and one score last season and dropped down the Jaguars' depth chart this preseason. He's strictly depth behind Calvin Johnson, Titus Young and Ryan Broyles.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure sat out the final quarter and a half Sunday against Seattle but coach Jim Schwartz said after the game that Leshoure was not injured.
Insight: That's bad news for fantasy owners if it's true. It would mean that Leshoure is in Schwartz' dog house for some unknown reason.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had his first multi-touchdown game of the season Sunday against Seattle. He threw three scores to go along with 352 yards and also rushed for a touchdown.
Insight: Stafford had 12 multi-touchdown efforts last season but came in with just five passing touchdowns and six picks in six games. Detroit's offense finally looked like a juggernaut Sunday against a strong Seahawks defense. The Lions will try to keep it up next week at Jacksonville.
Description: Lions second-round selection Ryan Broyles made his first contributions of the season for Detroit, catching three balls for 51 yards and a score. They were his first catches of the season after rehabing from an ACL injury he suffered last November at Oklahoma.
Insight: Titus Young and Broyles will both see plenty of opportunities with Burleson gone for the season due to a broken leg. Broyles was certainly the better of the two Monday night.
Description: Lions second-year receiver Titus Young should get the starting gig opposite Calvin Johnson with Nate Burleson done for the season due to a broken leg. Young has struggled this year with a knee problem, but has 17 receptions for 204 yards and one touchdown.
Insight: Young and rookie Ryan Broyles will both see plenty of opportunities as teams double Johnson. Broyles was certainly the better of the two Monday night, catching three balls for 51 yards and a touchdown.
Description: Lions receiver Nate Burleson, who was taken to the locker room on a cart in Monday's game versus Chicago, will miss the remainder of the season with a broken right leg.
Insight: Titus Young and rookie Ryan Broyles will both see plenty of opportunities with Burleson gone. Broyles was certainly the better of the two Monday night, catching three balls for 51 yards and a touchdown. They were his first catches of the season after rehabing from an ACL injury he suffered last November at Oklahoma.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure carried 12 times for 63 yards against a tough Bears defense but he lost a fumble inside the red zone on the Lions' final drive of the first half.
Insight: Fantasy owners can be relieved that backup Joique Bell fumbled the ball inside the 5-yard line in the third quarter. Leshoure is still the top back on the team and should continue to post decent flex numbers.
Description: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford had another disappointing performance Monday against the Bears but once again threw a late TD pass to somewhat salvage the game for fantasy owners.
Insight: Stafford picked up 73 yards and a touchdown on the team's final drive with Chicago leading 13-0 and finished 28-of-46 for 261 yards, one TD and one INT in a 13-7 loss.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson has just one touchdown reception through five games -- he had nine at the same point last season. However, he actually has more catches and yards this season than he had through five games in 2011 -- 35 for 558 to 29 for 451.
Insight: Johnson has exceeded 100 yards in three games and reached 94 in another this season. Megatron said he isn't frustrated with his lack of touchdowns, according to MLive.com. "If I was dropping a bunch of touchdown passes, yeah," Johnson said. "The coverage can dictate a lot of things. It'll come. As long as we're able to help out moving the ball down the field, that's all that matters right now."
Description: According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Lions have announced that running back Jahvid Best (concussions) will not be permitted to return to play.
Insight: Tough break for Best, who was attempting to return when first eligible in Week 7. The running back has not played in more than a year and it remains to be seen if he will ever return to the game.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson caught six balls for 135 yards against the Eagles.
Insight: Johnson, like his quarterback, is suffering because he isn't getting into the end zone, but at least he's averaging an excellent 111 ypg to keep fantasy owners from getting upset. Johnson has just one touchdown reception in five games after hauling in nine in the first five games last season and 16 all last season.
Description: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for just 91 yards in the first half, but finished with a flurry and posted another 300-yard day.
Insight: Stafford is still not getting the ball into the end zone enough to satisfy fantasy owners. His one touchdown throw against the Eagles was just his fourth of the season. He threw 41 touchdown passed last season.
Description: Michael Lombardi on the NFL Network reports that Lions running back Jahvid Best has not encountered any setbacks in his recovery from a concussion and hopes to play Week 7 against the Bears.
Insight: Best hasn't appeared in a game in almost a year. Mikel Leshoure and Kevin Smith have been splitting carries without Best in the Detroit backfield this season, though neither player has been particularly productive.
Description: Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith is a healthy scratch for Week 6 against Philadelphia.
Insight: After being the lead back over the first two weeks, Smith didn't see a carry in either of the next two games. It's obvious he's not part of the Lions future plans and should be let go for a more viable fantasy option.
Description: Lions safety Louis Delmas will make his season debut on Sunday against the Eagles.
Insight: The Lions defense/special teams was a top-five fantasy option in 2011-12 with 41 sacks, 34 turnovers and seven defensive TDs, but has been a shell of that this season. The addition of Delmas can only help to bolster the Lions secondary.
Description: Lions running back Jahvid Best (concussions) was supposed to get the results of his Monday concussion tests on Friday, but coach Jim Schwartz hasn't provided any update.
Insight: Mikel Leshoure as primary running back and Best in a receiving role similar to Darren Sproles' role in New Orleans could provide the Lions with a nice running threat to balance with their potent passing game. We await the results.
Description: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew has turned in a limited practice the last two days after the team gave him a day of rest on Tuesday.
Insight: The Lions weren't required to release an injury report until Wednesday so Pettigrew's reason for missing practice Tuesday was initially undisclosed. However, Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Wednesday that Pettigrew was just getting a rest day. The tight end should be OK to play this week.
Description: Though Lions receiver Calvin Johnson passed a concussion test to return to a game against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 4, Johnson admitted Thursday that he did sustain a concussion in that game and played through it, according to Mlive.com.
Insight: Meanwhile, Lions coach Jim Schwartz vehemently denied the notion that Johnson sustained a concussion in that game. "He was thoroughly checked," Schwartz said. "We're very strong in our evaluation, and as an organization, we have some credibility when it comes to concussions. So just leave it there."
Description: Lions coach Jim Schwartz thinks that Titus Young's injured knee has had a negative impact on his performance this season. SOURCE: Detroit Free Press.
Insight: Young has just nine catches for 117 yards this season. His one touchdown reception came on a miracle 46-yard heave at the end of regulation Week 3 versus the Titans. Young has been one of fantasy's biggest underachievers this season and his poor play is beginning to affect quarterback Matthew Stafford's overall fantasy value.
Description: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said running back Jahvid Best (concussions) is going through "return to play protocols" and is in the best shape he's been in since his rookie year.
Insight: Best is expected to play a similar role to Darren Sproles, catching passes out of the back field and getting around five carries a game. The explosive Best will be more than a year removed from his last concussion if he comes off the PUP list for Week 7 when he's first eligible.
Description: According to Mlive.com, Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew didn't practice Tuesday.
Insight: Pettigrew's injury is unknown since Detroit isn't required to release an official injury report until Wednesday. Pettigrew also missed the Lions' practice last Wednesday during the team's bye week.
Description: According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Lions are "hopeful" Jahvid Best (concussions) will be ready to play in Week 7 against Chicago.
Insight: Best is expected to play a similar role to Darren Sproles, catching passes out of the back field and getting around five carries a game. The explosive Best will be more than a year removed from his last concussion if he returns for Week 7.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure handled 17 touches Sunday but he only produced 63 total yards.
Insight: Leshoure wasn't bothered by his groin injury as much as he was Minnesota's overpowering defensive front. The back's day was made worse when he lost a fumble on his longest run of the day. It won't get much easier after the Lions' Week 5 bye with Philadelphia, Chicago and Seattle on the schedule.
Description: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford went 30-of-51 for 319 yards but he was sacked five times and failed to throw a touchdown pass. He did rush for a touchdown but he only has four total scores in four games after producing 41 in 16 games last season.
Insight: The good news is that Stafford wasn't limited by his leg injury that knocked him out last week. The bad news is that the Lions have largely become a dink-and-dunk offense.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson has returned to action. He briefly left the game after taking a hard hit to the head.
Insight: Detroit is down by a pair of touchdowns so they're going to have to air it out in the fourth quarter. Look for Megatron to add to his yardage total with a few junk time receptions.
Description: Detroit wideout Calvin Johnson injured his head in a helmet-to-helmet collision Sunday against Minnesota and has been lifted from the game.
Insight: Johnson has had a quiet afternoon so far, reeling in just four catches for 37 yards. His return is questionable.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure (groin) will start Sunday against Minnesota, according to Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com.
Insight: Leshoure has been limited in practice all week but there was never a realistic chance that he wouldn't play Sunday. He touched the ball 30 times in his NFL debut last week, and even if his workload decreases the running back still figures to be heavily favored by the Detroit coaching staff as the Lions try to maintain offensive balance.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure started and carried the ball 26 times for 100 yards and a touchdown in his NFL debut Sunday against the Titans, but a groin injury has him questionable for Week 4.
Insight: The Lions need to run the ball to be effective so having Leshoure in the lineup is key to having balance and backup Kevin Smith is a batter pass receiver than runner. It appears to be a game-time decision.
Description: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford practiced again on Friday and it looks like he's going to play Sunday against Minnesota. Stafford left last Sunday's game against Tennessee with an injured hip.
Insight: The Lions will need a win this week to avoid dropping to 1-3 for the year so expect Stafford to play this weekend and as always, throw often.
Description: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford practiced with the first team on Thursday and it looks like he's going to play Sunday against Minnesota. Stafford left last Sunday's game against Tennessee with an injured hip.
Insight: The Lions will need a win this week to avoid dropping to 1-3 for the year so even if Stafford is still a little banged up, we're guessing he'll get the start in Week 4.
Description: Lions coach Jim Schwartz refused to elaborate on Matthew Stafford's leg injury, but a league source told ProFootballTalk on NBCSports.com that Stafford has a hamstring issue and the expectation is that he should be OK.
Insight: Schwartz said he'll make a decision on Friday regarding Stafford's status for Week 4. Stafford owners should put in a waiver claim on backup Shaun Hill.
Description: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said he had no update on quarterback Matthew Stafford (leg) or the MRI Stafford received Monday. Schwartz said he would make a decision by Friday.
Insight: If you want to be safe and don't have a quality backup on your roster, use a waiver claim on backup Shaun Hill, who played well in the substitute role.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, who left Sunday's game against the Titans in the fourth quarter with a leg injury, will have an MRI on Monday.
Insight: Stafford didn't have a bad day, for 278 yards and one touchdown before leaving the game, but had he stayed and been as effective as backup Shaun Hill it could have been a great day. Together the two Lions QBs threw for 450 yards and three scores.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure started and carried the ball 26 times for 100 yards and a touchdown in his NFL debut Sunday against the Titans. Meanwhile, backup Kevin Smith didn't have a carry.
Insight: Leshoure also caught four balls, topping the projected 15 touches by 15 Sunday. The Lions need to run the ball to be effective so look for Leshoure to continue to be a solid flex play and potential RB2 in all formats.
Description: Lions receiver Titus Young finally had a useful fantasy day but he needed a fluke tipped ball 46-yard touchdown at the end of regulation to finish with six catches for 75 yards and a touchdown.
Insight: Young was in the right place at the right time Sunday, but that hardly warrants fantasy attention. Leave him on your bench for the time being.
Description: Lions receiver Nate Burleson has 17 catches over the first three weeks of the season.
Insight: Burleson caught 10 passes for 69 yards and a touchdown in Week 3 against Tennessee. He's a decent emergency fill-in at receiver in PPR leagues.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson finally got in the end zone in Week 3, but the throw didn't come from Matthew Stafford, it came from Shaun Hill. Hill replaced Stafford after the latter exited with a leg injury.
Insight: Johnson was a beast as expected, catching 10 balls for 164 yards and a touchdown. Megatron hasn't been hurt by Stafford's fantasy struggles at all this season despite the lack of TDs.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford left Sunday's game against the Titans in the fourth quarter with a strained leg muscle.
Insight: Stafford didn't have a bad day but it's certainly not what we were expecting against a terrible Tennessee defense. The Lions QB threw for 278 yards and one touchdown before leaving the game.
Description: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (leg) will have an MRI on his right leg on Monday to evaluate his pulled leg muscle. According to the Detroit Free Press, Stafford injured his hamstring or glut during practice last week and then aggravated it Sunday trying to chase down Alterraun Verner following a fumble recovery.
Insight: Stafford was average against a pitiful Titans defense before his injury and Shaun Hill came in and threw two touchdown passes in the final 18 seconds of regulation. Hopefully Stafford can go next week but if he can't Hill shouldn't hurt the value of Detroit's other weapons.
Description: Lions punter Ben Graham injured his calf and is questionable to return.
Insight: The result is that 42-year-old Jason Hanson must now handle all the kicking duties. Hanson hit from 47 and 53 yards in the first quarter. Hopefully, the additional work won't effect his field goal kicking for the remainder of the game.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure is starting Sunday, overtaking Kevin Smith. Leshoure will be making his NFL debut after missing all of 2011 due to a ruptured Achilles' tendon and the first two games of 2012 due to suspension.
Insight: Leshoure is expected to get 15 touches. He's a sleeper RB2 against Tennessee's weak defense.
Description: According to the Lions' official website, Lions receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) was a full participant in Friday's practice and is listed as probable for Week 3.
Insight: Johnson was never a threat to miss Week 3. The Lions will face a subpar Titans defense this week, so we like Megatron to pick up his first touchdown of the season.
Description: Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith will have additional competition in the Lions backfield this week with the return of Mikel Leshoure (suspension/Achilles).
Insight: Smith received most of the reps with the first team this week and will certainly be the starter, but fantasy owners should pay attention to how the Lions use Leshoure and re-evaluate Smith's value after the game.
Description: According to the Lions' official website, Lions receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) practiced Thursday in a limited session.
Insight: Johnson has missed Wednesday's practice in each of the last two weeks but he should be fine once again in Week 3. Though he's been kept out of the end zone in two games this season, Johnson has accumulated 14 catches and 205 yards. The superstar receiver is a good bet to score this Sunday against a Tennessee defense that has allowed five passing touchdowns in two games this season.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure returns from suspension in Week 3 and should see plenty of action.
Insight: Leshoure is a better runner than either Kevin Smith or Joique Bell. Expect a shared situation between Leshoure and Smith with Smith doing most of the receiving work and Leshoure the ground game.
Description: Anwar Richardson of MLive.com reports that receiver Calvin Johnson returned to practice for the Lions on Thursday. Johnson missed Wednesday's practice while tending to an injured foot.
Insight: Johnson is still listed as questionable but we'd be very surprised if coach Jim Schwartz held him out of Sunday night's primetime matchup against San Francisco. Megatron tallied 111 yards on six catches in the season opener last week versus St. Louis.
Description: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson was listed on the team's injury report Wednesday due to a foot injury, according to the Lions' official website.
Insight: Detroit coach Jim Schwartz didn't comment on the situation per his policy on injury report news but Johnson should be fine to play Sunday. The superstar receiver turned in a 100-yard effort in Week 1 despite Matthew Stafford's struggles.
Description: Lions receiver Titus Young had a standout summer, but based on Week 1 opportunities, he's not ready to become a fantasy star anytime soon.
Insight: Quarterback Matthew Stafford threw 48 passes in the team's win over St. Louis, but only three were targeted to Young which ranked sixth on the Lions roster behind Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Brandon Pettigrew, Tony Schaffler and Kevin Smith. Not an encouraging sign for those who drafted Young thinking he would take over for Burleson as the No. 2 receiver.
Description: Fantasy owners were expecting more from Lions QB Matthew Stafford against a weak Rams defense. Stafford did throw for 355 yards, but three interceptions crushed his value for the day.
Insight: The Lions were surprisingly average in the passing game until the fourth quarter. Stafford is still a top QB option, but another week like this could cause fantasy owners to panic. As long as the Lions quarterback is healthy, though, he should come close to 4,700 yards and 35 touchdowns.
Description: Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith scored two touchdowns and had 91 total yards on 17 touches Sunday against the Rams.
Insight: No other Lions player received more than one carry. Smith will be a solid RB2 for several weeks, but the presence of Mikel Leshoure and eventually Jahvid Best will cloud this backfield rotation since Detroit throws the ball upwards of 40 times a game.
Description: Detroit running back Jahvid Best (concussions) vows he'll be ready to return when he comes off the PUP list next month, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Insight: Best has been out since Week 6 of last season while dealing with concussion-like symptoms. If he is able to return at full strength, the halfback would be someone to target as a flex play in PPR leagues.
Description: Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith is questionable for Sunday's game against St. Louis due to an ankle injury.
Insight: With Jahvid Best on the shelf and Mikel Leshoure suspended, Smith is the Lions' best option, but the team will likely use Keiland Williams as well.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure finished the preseason with 44 yards on 20 carries (2.2 ypc).
Insight: Leshoure had a nice 33-yard reception on a screen play Thursday in the team's final preseason game. He's likely to split time with Kevin Smith once Smith is healthy, but neither player figures to be more than a bye week fill-in.
Description: According to Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com, other teams are saying that the Detroit Lions are making calls in search of a running back.
Insight: With Jahvid Best on the shelf for at least six games, the Lions are left with a hodgepodge of mediocre running backs that includes Kevin Smith and Mikel Leshoure. Neither Smith nor Leshoure (when he returns from a two-game suspension) should be started in fantasy leagues, even if Detroit doesn't acquire another player.
Description: Tim Twentyman of Detroit Lions.com reports quarterback Matthew Stafford returned to practice Monday and wasn't wearing any tape or padding on his injured left hand. Stafford broke a blood vessel in that hand after falling to the ground in Saturday's exhibition loss against the Raiders.
Insight: We expected him to be fine but now there's no doubt that Stafford will be on the field for September 9th's season opener against St. Louis.
Description: Detroit running back Jahvid Best has officially been placed on the physically unable to perform list. He'll miss at least the first six games of the season.
Insight: Best has been out since Week 6 of last season while dealing with concussion-like symptoms. With Best out, Kevin Smith will enter the season as the Lions' starter at halfback.
Description: The ankle injury Lions halfback Kevin Smith suffered in Saturday's preseason game against Oakland doesn't appear to be serious. Smith told reporters after the game that X-rays on his injured ankle came back negative. He also claims that he does not have a high ankle sprain.
Insight: Smith is likely to see most of the carries for Detroit this year with starter Jahvid Best on the shelf (concussion), though he's probably not going to be much of a factor in fantasy as the Lions hardly ever run the football.
Description: X-rays came back negative on Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford's injured left hand.
Insight: Stafford was playing well before hurting his hand and was probably taken out of the game simply as a precaution. This shouldn't affect Stafford's draft status in fantasy leagues.
Description: Quarterback Matthew Stafford hurt his nonthrowing hand and had to come out of the game Saturday against Oakland.
Insight: Stafford had been 8-for-10 with 68 yards before the injury. The injury seems pretty minor and we're guessing Stafford is still on schedule to start Week 1 against St. Louis.
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure (hamstring), hopes to play in the Lions' third preseason game.
Insight: Leshoure will miss the first two games of the season due to suspension, but could be a touchdowns maker in 2012. At 227 pounds, he's a better option than Kevin Smith or Jahvid Best, if the latter ever returns from his concussion problems.
Description: ESPN's Adam Schefter expects that Lions running back Jahvid Best will begin the season on the PUP list. Best has been dealing with concussion symptoms for much of the last year.
Insight: That would eliminate Best for the first six games of the 2012 campaign. With Best out for the forseeable future, expect Kevin Smith to take over the running game in Detroit.
Description: According to the Detroit Free Press, Lions receiver Titus Young has had a standout summer, and though he missed the team's first preseason game due to a paternity leave, he was back Monday, dominating one-on-one drills and "creating yards of separation with every cornerback he faced."
Insight: Matthew Stafford threw 663 passes last season, so there should be plenty of targets to go around to satisfy Calvin Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew and Young as long as Young can eclipse Nate Burleson on the depth chart. We project Young to have 62 catches, 744 yards and seven TDs, but 70/900/8 wouldn't surprise us.
Description: Detroit backup running back Joique Bell ran well against the Browns on Friday night, with 16 carries for 89 yards.
Insight: Bell and Keiland Williams (9-71) showed well in the team's first exhibition game and should get more chances down the road. If they continue to improve the Lions may not need to search for a veteran while Jahvid Best and Mikel Leshoure rehab their injuries.
Description: Lions safety Louis Delmas underwent left knee surgery Tuesday by Dr. James Andrew on Tuesday, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. We don't yet know the timetable for his return.
Insight: The Lions defense/special teams was a top-five fantasy option in 2011 with 41 sacks, 34 turnovers and seven defensive TDs. If he's out for a long time, the Delmas injury could hurt their chances to be the league's top fantasy defense.
Description: Detroit running back Kevin Smith is listed as the starting running back on the team's first depth chart, according to MLive.com.
Insight: Jahvid Best still hasn't been cleared to practice or play and and Mikel Leshoure will miss the team's first two games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. While Leshoure will likely take the most carries once he returns from his suspension, Smith is worth a late-round flier.
Description: Detroit Lions general manager Martin Mayhew told the Detroit Free Press that he's "a little bit surprised" and "a little bit disappointed" that running back Jahvid Best still hasn't been cleared for contact nine months after his last concussion.
Insight: With Mikel Leshoure dealing with injuries and a two-game suspension and Best not anywhere close to ready, the Lions running game may fall of Kevin Smith. This is a must-watch situation for every fantasy owner.
Description: Detroit running back Kevin Smith could end up being the Lions Opening Day starter.
Insight: Jahvid Best still hasn't been cleared to practice or play and and Mikel Leshoure will miss the team's first two games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Smith started out as an "insurance policy" signing by the Lions, but could end up with significant fantasy value. With a fantasyfootballcalculator ADP of 146.8, he's a small investment which could have a huge upside.
Description: Lions running back Jahvid Best (concussions) was placed on active/PUP to start Lions camp. He can be cleared to play as soon as he passes the physical.
Insight: Best will likely play a Darren Sproles role -- 6-10 rushes and 4-5 catches per game -- for the Lions if he can stay healthy this season, so he should carry extra value in PPR leagues. However, he has a long history of injuries, including multiple concussions last season. Lions coach Jim Schwartz said "there is still a hurdle to go" for Best to be cleared for contact.
Description: Lions running back Jahvid Best (concussions) has not been cleared for contact yet, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.
Insight: Best will likely play a Darren Sproles role -- 6-10 rushes and 4-5 catches per game -- for the Lions if he can stay healthy this season, so he should carry extra value in PPR leagues. However, he has a long history of injuries, including multiple concussions last season. Lions coach Jim Schwartz said "there is still a hurdle to go" for Best to be cleared for contact.
Description: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril said that he won't be in attendance for the start of training camp after failing to reach a long-term deal with the team before Monday's deadline.
Insight: We're not sure how long Avril (36 tackles, 11 sacks, one interception last season) is willing to holdout for but he's an important piece in Detroit's defensive scheme and his presence will definitely be missed if the holdout continues into the regular season.
Description: Coach Jim Schwartz sees Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure as the team's short-yardage back this season.
Insight: Leshoure will miss the first two games of the season due to suspension, but could be a touchdowns maker in 2012. At 227 pounds, he's the obvious choice over 5-10 199 lb Jahvid Best. Leshoure will be a valued handcuff this season because of Best's proclivity for getting injured
Description: Detroit running back Mikel Leshoure has been suspended for the first two games of the season after a pair of offseason marijuana arrests.
Insight: Leshoure may be the long-term answer to the Lions running game, but adding the suspension to his comeback attempt from a torn Achilles tendon and you have very little incentive to put him or your 2012 roster.
Description: Lions running back Jahvid Best (multiple concussions) says he has not experienced concussion-like symptoms since last year.
Insight: Best has LeSean McCoy-like talent, the ability to run and catch the ball with the best on them. The problem is reliability, he played hurt in 2010 starting just nine games and missed 10 games in 2011 due to multiple concussions. While he may not have any symptoms today, the hitting has yet to begin. The ultimate high-risk selection and one that we can't recommend at this time.
Description: Lions wideout Titus Young returned to the team's OTA after apologized for his "recent actions" - a fight with teammate safety Louis Delmas two weeks ago.
Insight: Young has shown plenty of skill and should he beat out Nate Burleson for the spot opposite Calvin Johnson could have a much increased fantasy value from his 48 catch, 607 yard, six touchdown rookie season.
