Kevin Smith had a bit of a disadvantage last season when he was the No. 1 running back. The offense had so many holes that it would have been tough for anyone to run the ball effectively. Then to make matters worse, Smith tore his ACL.

His rehab has been right on schedule and during OTAs and minicamp you could see him progress from individual drills to occasional 7-on-7s.

Smith should be cleared for training camp, but still might not be at 100 percent. He’s been a good teammate by helping rookie running back Jahvid Best who the Lions picked up late in the first round.

Best is likely to be the starter, but Smith should have an active role in the running game if his knee heals and he maintains a good team-first attitude.

(This is part of a series of 20 Lions to watch in training camp which starts July 31. Follow me on Twitter.com @PaulaPasche.)