In the NFL, health can mean everything. The Lions have been hit hard by injuries since the first half of the opener when they lost starting QB Matthew Stafford.

While other NFL teams are starting to lose players to injury, the Lions are starting to get guys back. It’s a good sign.

Even though the Washington Redskins managed to win Sunday’s game at Chicago, the Lions should have a good chance to meet them on Sunday when they play at Ford Field.

The Lions had a bye on Sunday and will be coming back a rested and healthier squad.

First, barring any setbacks, Stafford should be the starting quarterback. He hasn’t played since the first half of the opener at Chicago. He said on Thursday that he’s pain-free and because of the nature of the injury -- it was an A.C. separation -- all the zing will remain in his throwing.

Calvin Johnson didn’t miss the last game with a shoulder injury, but rest should bring him closer to 100 percent too.

Jahvid Best, who has played with turf toe, and has not been able to participate in many practices should be closer to healthy too.

The defense will be missing one starter for sure. Zack Follett tweeted last week that he will see a spine specialist this Thursday.

Coach Jim Schwartz said the plan is for middle linebacker DeAndre Levy to start. He’s only played one game and has been out the last three games with an ankle injury. He did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday which was not a good sign. If he’s back, you’ll see a difference in the defense.

The Lions have Monday off. They started preparing for the Redskins last week and will go full-out when they get back to work on Tuesday.

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