The Lions preseason game against the Ravens took on a whole new level of importance for Detroit fans when the team announced shortly after pregame warmup that WR Ryan Broyles (ACL) would be available to make his NFL debut.

The decision to activate Broyles is surprising, since he has yet to practice on consecutive days during camp.

The Lions didn't practice Thursday, however, so his possible participation Friday doesn't change his current day on, day off practice regimen. The second-round draft pick's rehab progress was a major storyline entering camp, and the fact that he's available for the second preseason game is a good sign.

If Broyles does indeed play, expect him to see very limited reps. He has taken special teams reps in practice, but the Detroit Free Press reported that he wasn't with the unit during warmup. 

Lions' inactives vs. Baltimore: RB Mikel Leshoure (hamstring), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (knee), DT Sammie Hill (back), T Jonathan Scott (knee), S Louis Delmas (knee).

Inactives analysis: None of the players ruled out vs. the Ravens come as a surprise, although Leshoure's absence is another lost opportunity for him to get game reps before serving a two week suspension to start the regular season. He took part in individual drills Wednesday, but he still has a ways to go before being cleared for game action. Detroit's final preseason game looks like a more realistic goal for Leshoure to make his NFL debut.

Key lineup changes: Lawrence Jackson will start at RDE for Kyle Vanden Bosch . Jacob Lacey starts at RCB over preseason Week 1 choice Bill Bentley. John Wendling starts at FS for the injured Louis Delmas .

Lineup analysis: Starting Jackson over Willie Young in Vanden Bosch's spot is a possible indication that Jackson has edged ahead in the race to be Detroit's top backup. Both Jackson and Young have had outstanding camps, however, and they'll get plenty of reps vs. the Ravens. Jim Schwartz wasn't happy with rookie CB Bill Bentley's performance in the preseason opener, so it's no surprise that Lacey gets the start Friday. That said, the battle to start opposite Chris Houston is far from over. Bentley should still see plenty of reps as the nickel DB. Wendling's second consecutive start is an indication of Jim Schwartz' trust in his consistent play. Wendling isn't flashy, but he gets the job done. His stability will help anchor Detroit's secondary until Delmas returns.

Follow Lions reporter John Kreger on Twitter at @CBSSportsNFLDET and @JohnKreger