Five things to watch during the Lions’ mandatory three-day minicamp which opens Tuesday morning.

1. Let’s keep an eye on running backs Jahvid Best and Kevin Smith. Mikel Leshoure sat out last week after he was having some trouble coming off his torn Achilles. Actually it was the other foot that was bothering him because of compensation. Not sure how active he will be at this minicamp. Best looks bigger and stronger. Smith is always a beast physically, he just hasn’t been able to stay healthy.

2. First-round pick Riley Reiff has practiced solely at offensive tackle — no guard work. So it will be curious to see which side he lines up on most often. It won’t be a true indication of where he will play, but it might provide a little insight into the situation. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said Reiff is coming along well and will be ready to play “very early.”

3. Defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham has liked what he’s seen from veteran linebacker Ashlee Palmer (who’s been working in the middle). Of course the starters are projected to be the same as last year — Stephen Tulloch, Justin Durant and DeAndre Levy. But nothing is set in stone.

4. With three rookie cornerbacks (Bill Bentley, Chris Greenwood and Jonte Green) and a new free agent in Jacob Lacey there should be plenty to watch as they go one on one with Calvin Johnson and company.

5. Just for fun — the connection between Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson. It’s still there, just a beauty to behold.

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Expect the first tweets out of minicamp about 9 a.m. on Tuesday. Get Lions news delivered directly to your phone by texting the keyword "Lions" to 22700. Msg & Data Rates May Apply. Text HELP for help. Text STOP to cancel.)