According to MLive.com’s Tom Kowalski, the Lions will likely place running back Kevin Smith on the Physically Unable to Perform list to open training camp. Smith is recovering from a torn ACL.
Being placed on training camp PUP, or “active/PUP,” isn’t normally a big deal. Players often go on the list with routine, minor injuries, and can be removed at any time throughout camp.
For Smith, though, it would be notable. The former No. 64 overall pick and two-year starter tore his ACL in Week 14 of last season, so it’s no lock that he’ll be ready for Opening Day in 2010. Smith is also in danger of losing his feature back role to first-round pick Jahvid Best.
Going on active/PUP would make Smith a candidate for reserve/PUP if he’s not able to return to the practice field during training camp. If placed on reserve/PUP, Smith would miss at least the first six weeks of the season.
The Lions would move forward with journeyman vets Maurice Morris and DeDe Dorsey, and second-year scatback Aaron Brown behind Best on the depth chart.
