Kevin

Jones

Mariucci said there are varying degrees of high ankle sprains, but was vague about Jones’ specific case. He said Jones has suffered the injury before and only missed a few weeks, so the team was hopeful that would be the case here. Artose Pinner and Shawn Bryson could have a little short-term value.

Despite a gimpy preseason, Jones will start in Detroit. He’s a decent play vs. Chicago, but isn’t guaranteed more than 15 touches. The Lions will share the ball.

Coach Steve Mariucci wants to get them familiar with the blocking responsibilities in the one-back sets, possibly beginning as soon as Saturday.

Jones has little more to prove in preseason after his excellent seven carry, 36-yard performance vs. Baltimore last weekend. His draft stock is steadily rising.

“I think I can go,” Jones said. “I haven’t been tackled or anything like that, you know. But, as far as just going out and practicing full speed, I was up to full speed. Had a little pain. . . . I guess they’re going to make a game-day decision, I’m not sure. It’s not 100 percent, but I think I can go.”

With Artose Pinner proving to be a capable fill-in, the Lions may not rush him back.

Jones had a second consecutive strong practice on Friday. He’s listed as questionable and will be a game-time decision, but we expect him to split carries with Artose Pinner now.

Jones hasn’t been able to practice much because of his injured likely, so this is just a conditioning issue.

Jones displayed “an impressive burst of speed” at practice and looks ready to go. He’ll need to impress Detroit early for a chance to get over 200 carries this season.

Artose Pinner is bigger, stronger and healthier than he was a year ago, and Shawn Bryson is also healthier than he was at this time in 2003, but coach Steve Mariucci is still waiting to see what Jones can contribute. Jones is still the top Detroit RB to select in fantasy drafts, but shouldn’t be selected until most other starters are off the board.