ALLEN PARK — Six Lions’ defensemen didn’t practice today (Thursday).

Missing from the practice field were Louis Delmas (knee), Eric Wright (hamstring), Justin Durant (hamstring), Nick Fairley (foot), Aaron Berry (shoulder) and Lawrence Jackson (thigh).

None were a surprise.

Coach Jim Schwartz repeated on Wednesday that if any of these injuries were thought to be long-term, the players would be placed on injured reserve.

However, it’s closing in on the time to make the decision who will be available at Oakland on Sunday. If Fairley can’t play, the return of Ndamukong Suh ensures the defensive line won’t be short at tackle.

If Delmas, Wright and Berry can’t play the secondary will again be short on bodies.

Running back Kevin Smith (high ankle sprain) was on the practice field, but didn’t participate in all the drills.

The Lions (8-5) play a key game in their playoff chase at 4 p.m. Sunday at the Oakland Raiders (7-6).

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