Detroit Lions tailback Mikel Leshoure offered a much-needed positive sign for running game when he participated in practice Wednesday for the first time since injuring his hamstring on the second day of camp.
His return marked the just the fourth workout for either of Detroit's top two running backs since Jahvid Best suffered a concussion in Week 6 of last season.
Leshoure took part in individual drills, taking a spot in the rotation behind the four players -- Kevin Smith, Keiland Williams, Joique Bell, and Stefan Logan -- who are expected to handle running back duties when the regular season begins.
Leshoure cut well, but that assessment is mitigated by the fact that drills weren't run at full speed. Leshoure left the field when team drills began to work with trainers.
After he missed the entire 2011 season with a ruptured achilles tendon, Leshoure's coaches would prefer his first reps against an NFL-caliber defense come in the preseason.
The two-game suspension -- and resulting ban from Detroit's practice facility -- that Leshoure faces to start the regular season places an additional premium on evaluating his play during the preseason.
“[Leshoure's] been making good progress,” Jim Schwartz said. “But that urgency for him to get on the field and be able to do some things [before his suspension begins], that window is starting to narrow.”
Leshoure said he was excited to return to the practice field, and he's pleased with the progress he's made during his rehab.
“Now that I'm healthy, it's even more exciting to have a chance to get out there with [the RB corps]” he said. “My mind's in the right place, and I'm ready to get out there. The injury's behind me.”
Follow Lions reporter John Kreger on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLDET and @JohnKreger.
