(Until training camp starts at the end of July, Lions Lowdown will be posted five times a week using the list format.)

Leadership is key to any NFL team. Here are the Detroit Lions’ top four leaders on offense:

1. Matthew Stafford is only 25 but he’s the quarterback and has been a leader since he first stepped on the practice field. He’s grown into that role with four years of experience. It’s impressive for a player of his age to earn the respect of his teammates as fast as he did.

2. Nate Burleson is only 30 but seems much wiser. He’s the glue of sorts for the offense. He’s vocal. He’s a good people person which is key.

3. Calvin Johnson is quiet, but that doesn’t matter. He leads by example. No one works harder and the young receivers just have to notice.

4. Reggie Bush may be the new guy but he’s been on a Super Bowl winning Saints team so he knows what it takes to win. He’s not afraid to help the young players especially the young running backs. He works hard and has earned immediate respect from his new teammates.

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Order her book,  “100 Things Lions Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die’’ here. It’s also available at bookstores.)