"Kevin Smith hasn't logged an NFL carry in almost a year, but offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said the Lions' newest running back could make a cameo in Sunday's game against the Bears.

"I could see him playing some this game," Linehan said Thursday. "The expectation is to get to Sunday and see where we are. The other two guys (Maurice Morris and Keiland Williams) are ready to go, like they were. But there would be a scenario there where Kevin could play for us."

Morris has averaged 4.9 yards a carry over the last two games in Jahvid Best's absence and is expected to start again Sunday. Best is still recovering from an October concussion.

Williams has 39 carries for 118 yards in seven games this year, mostly in short-yardage and goal-line situations."