ALLEN PARK >> Reggie Bush has missed the last three games with an ankle injury, but when he returns he will be the Lions starting running back.

“Yeah, today’s he’s not because obviously we haven’t played a game yet. When he gets back absolutely (he’s the starter),’’ Caldwell said on Thursday.

Joique Bell has carried the load in Bush’s absence and is running better than he has all season.

Caldwell said Bush’s role will remain the same when he returns which could be on Sunday against Tampa Bay.

“Every game is different, he has the skill set where he can do a lot of things,’’ Caldwell said. “The good thing is he’s practicing and looks good.’’

Bush had a full practice on Wednesday and was back at practice on Thursday.

Also returning to practice on Wednesday were left tackle Riley Reiff and right guard Larry Warford who have both missed time with knee injuries.

It will be an evaluation for both of them all through the week, according to Caldwell

“They handled (Wednesday’s) work load pretty well,’’ Caldwell said.

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