Jeff Backus got a little love today when he was named to the ESPN All-NFC North team. Backus was selected at left tackle over Green Bay’s Chad Clifton.

Backus, who has not missed a game in 10 seasons, does not get a lot of love from Lions fans, but the Lions’ coaching staff shows him great respect and that is what matters.

Backus, who is 33, has another year on his contract.

The Lions are prepared for his eventual retirement with Corey Hilliard and Jason Fox, a fourth-round pick in 2010. Hilliard was solid replacing the injured Gosder Cherilus at right tackle at the end of the season.

Fox saw limited playing time but that was only because the line was mostly healthy.

Other Lions who made the All-NFC North list include wide receiver Calvin Johnson, tight end Brandon Pettigrew, defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh and kick returner Stefan Logan.

Chicago’s Chris Harris beat out Lions safety Louis Delmas. ESPN.com’s Kevin Seifert put together the list with input from 800 of his followers.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)