ALLEN PARK -- Seven starters were among the 10 Lions sitting out practice today (Wednesday) in preparation for Sunday's game at Dallas.

Curiously, QB Matthew Stafford, who is usually on the field during practice, was nowhere in sight.

Wide receiver Calvin Johnson was on the field but not participating, as was tight end Tony Scheffler.

Others not practicing included running backs Jahvid Best (toe) and Kevin Smith (knee). It could be both were given the day to rest. Best was on the field, Smith was not.

Linebackers DeAndre Levy (ankle) and Bobby Carpenter also were out.

Also missing were two starting defensive linemen -- DE Cliff Avril (who missed Sunday’s game with a quadriceps injury) and DT Corey Williams who had a groin injury last week, but played on Sunday.

Also, RB Ian Johnson had his first practice. He was signed to practice squad on Tuesday to replace WR Mike Moore who was placed on practice squad injured reserve.

You may remember Johnson from the Fiesta Bowl in 2007. He was the Boise State player who proposed to his cheerleader girlfriend in the frenzy on the field following the game. He was released from the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad on Sept. 27.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)