Lions' Dwayne Washington: Not expected to play Thursday

Washington isn't expected to play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Bills, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

This confirms the notion that Washington has earned a roster spot, joining Ameer Abdullah, Theo Riddick and Zach Zenner (undisclosed) in the Detroit backfield. Washington has made a strong push to supplant Zenner for the No. 3 role, a job that could include goal-line and short-yardage work. Matt Asiata and Tion Green are expected to handle the bulk of the carries in Thursday's exhibition.