ALLEN PARK -- The interesting thing about the bye week is that you get a chance to see who's really hurt. During a normal week, guys are going to practice through a lot of ailments but, during the bye week, there's no game to prepare for and resting up is essential.
That's why 18 players were sidelined for the Detroit Lions' practice Wednesday. They were quarterback Shaun Hill, receivers Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson and Bryant Johnson, running backs Jahvid Best and Kevin Smith, tight ends Brandon Pettigrew and Will Heller, offensive linemen Jeff Backus and Stephen Peterman, defensive linemen Kyle Vanden Bosch, Corey Williams and Andre Fluellen, linebacker Zack Follett and defensive backs Alphonso Smith, Nathan Vasher and Louis Delmas.
The Lions also have cut two defensive backs -- Dante Wesley and Paul Pratt -- which leaves two openings on the 53-man roster.
Cornerback Jack Williams came off the Physically Unable to Perform list this week and can practice with the team for three weeks before the team has to make a decision on whether to activate him, waive him or put him on injured reserve.
Williams practiced with the Lions on Wednesday, but a decision on his future hasn't been made yet.