Tight end Brandon Pettigrew’s rookie season was cut short last year when he tore his ACL. He expects to be cleared for training camp, but he thinks the coaching staff will ease him in. He doesn’t expect a ton of work. He’s probably right. Coach Jim Schwartz’s philosophy on injuries is to err on the side of caution.

With a healthy Pettigrew, the offense gains another 6-foot-5 weapon. He and Tony Scheffler, who is also 6-foot-5, will present a powerful pair of tight ends and good targets for Matthew Stafford.

Pettigrew was a first-round pick last year for a reason. He’s got speed and good hands. If he can ease his way into the lineup and be ready to go full-out when the season starts, the offense will definitely benefit.

Like Kevin Smith, he participated in the OTAs and minicamp on a limited basis.

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