Every day during training camp, Lions beat writer Dave Birkett takes you inside practices at Allen Park with a few notes, quotes and observations of interest.

• It's only two days in, but the most impressive player in camp so far is cornerback Leigh Bodden. When Bodden intercepted a deep pass in Friday's morning session, staying with receiver Brandon Middleton on an out-and-up route, safety Dwight Smith barked, "That's our money man."

• I know I've said this before, but the additions of Bodden, Smith and Brian Kelly make the secondary much, much better (and that's without even considering a potentially healthy Daniel Bullocks, who remains on the PUP list). I stand by my prediction that if the Lions are able to generate a consistent pass rush they'll be a top-half-of-the-NFL defense this year.

• By my count, the defense made five interceptions in the morning session, including one each by linebackers Paris Lenon and Buster Davis.

• Linebacker Gilbert Gardner took some No. 1 reps at weak-side linebacker with Ernie Sims still being careful with his surgically-repaired shoulder. Unless Takeo Spikes signs, there should be roster space for both Gardner and Buster Davis, who's had a good first two days.

• Rookie Kevin Smith is catching the ball well coming out of the backfield. Tatum Bell's a solid pass protector, which might give him the edge in the running-back competition to start, but Smith is primed for a very productive season.