When the Lions signed DE Kyle Vanden Bosch as a free agent in March 2010, they got a great defensive end and perhaps a better leader. He proved it all during last season.

It continued last week at the team’s informal workouts. On Friday the guys went through a grueling five-station workout. Everyone made it, but Vanden Bosch was clearly one of the best conditioned guys on the field.

Former Patriots linebacker Willie McGinest worked out with the team Friday and he noticed Vanden Bosch too. You couldn’t help it.

“We’ve known him to have a motor and a little get-up about him, he’s dedicated, he’s a veteran going into his 11th year, I believe, we have to do that as older players. You have to come in and go hard, it’s not the same when you’re second, third or fourth year,’’ McGinest said. “He’s a great leader for these young guys out here, he’s still playing at a high level which is good.’’

Vanden Bosch was at all eight workouts which he helped coordinate. And even though he hates golf, he was at the Lions’ golf charity benefit last week to meet and greet.

He gets it. Coach Jim Schwartz knew that because he worked with him in Tennessee. Of all the good moves Martin Mayhew has made Vanden Bosch is in a class of his own.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche)