Lions: Notebook

Calvin Johnson back on practice field

Tim Twentyman / The Detroit News

Allen Park -- Receiver Calvin Johnson practiced Wednesday and took snaps with the first-team offense during the portion of practice open to the media, something he hasn't done in weeks.

He has missed the last two games because of a right knee injury suffered in the second quarter of a 28-20 loss to the Steelers on Oct. 11.

"He's made progress from the bye week and then getting ready last week. Everyday he's done a little bit more," coach Jim Schwartz said. "We'll probably give him a little bit more (today) than we gave him (Wednesday) and maybe a little bit more Friday, but it's probably still going to be a game-time decision."

Johnson went through a pregame workout on the field before last Sunday's 17-10 loss to the Rams, but the knee didn't respond like team officials had hoped and he was made inactive for just the third time in his career.

Johnson's likely return to the field against the Seahawks is great news for a Lions team that has struggled to throw the ball in his absence. The Lions had just 105 yards passing against the Packers and 168 against the Rams.

"He's obviously a big weapon for us, the focal point of our offense and somebody the defense really has to account for," quarterback Matthew Stafford said. "He's not just a guy you can bump and run with because he's so big. You have to put help over the top a lot of times and teams don't like to single him up. It changes (the defense's) philosophy. They are usually less aggressive to his side."

Running back Kevin Smith, who left last Sunday's game in the third quarter because of a shoulder injury, did not practice. Smith suffered a shoulder injury in Week 3, but has not missed a game this season.

Defensive end Jason Hunter was back at practice for the first time in three weeks after suffering an ankle injury against the Packers on Oct. 18. He said he's still "day-to-day." If Hunter is able to play, the Lions will have their starting line together for the first time since against the Redskins in Week 3, the last time they won.

Roster moves

The Lions signed cornerback Jason David to take the spot of cornerback Demarcus Faggins (groin), who was placed on injured reserve Tuesday.

The Lions also brought back receiver Eric Fowler, a New Haven native, and signed him to the practice squad. Receiver Taurus Johnson was released.

ttwentyman@detnews.com