Backus and Leshoure injured: Two Lions starters with existing injury concerns left Saturday’s practice under the care of trainers. RB Mikel Leshoure, who participated fully in drills during Friday’s opening workout, was held out of the second half of practice Saturday after injuring his hamstring. Leshoure said the injury wasn’t serious, but any leg injury is concerning for a player who missed all of the 2011 season with an Achilles injury. OT Jeff Backus, who is recovering from a torn biceps muscle, was held out of team activities after injuring his thumb in one-on-one drills. He underwent X-rays, which Jim Schwartz called “indeterminate.” Schwartz said Backus’ status would be evaluated before Sunday’s workout.

WR Titus Young continues to excel: WR Titus Young’s strong performance over the last two camp workouts has inspired confidence in Detroit’s WR depth. Young had a tumultuous offseason, missing a week of Detroit’s OTAs after punching teammate Louis Delmas. The incident sparked concerns over his focus and ability to control his emotions. Young has answered his critics with a more workmanlike attitude, an improved first step off the line and cleaner routes than he ran as rookie last year. If Young maintains this level of play, it will give Detroit greater flexibility to take its time with WR Ryan Broyles’ ACL rehab.

Defense getting up to speed: After an opening camp workout dominated by Detroit’s WRs, the secondary started to level the playing field Saturday. Alphonso Smith continued his good run of form opposite Chris Houston on the first team. Smith made a rare interception in 7-on-7 drills, and rookie Dwight “Bill” Bentley continued to improve in the nickel CB slot. By his own admission, Bentley made occasional errors, but his ability to adapt quickly to Detroit’s defensive scheme will serve him well in the Lions’ crowded CB competition.

Undrafted free agent WR Patrick Edwards making early impression: It’s not often that undrafted free agents make NFL rosters, but Edwards' speed has him in the early conversation for one of the final roster spots. Edwards routinely beat DBs in coverage on deep routes, exhibiting an extra gear that allows him to create instant space. Poor ball security hurt Edwards’ stock, however, and the errors weren’t lost on Jim Schwartz “[Edwards] makes plays,” Schwartz said. "Then [he] puts the ball on the ground a little too much.”

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