Safety Harrison Smith returned to practice on a limited basis today, another sign that he could play Sunday. Smith sprained his left ankle against the Patriots and was on crutches and in a walking boot six days ago. But he is apparently a fast healer and a tough guy, as Mike Zimmer likes to point out.
Wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (hip) and defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd (elbow) were also limited. Patterson said earlier today that he's feeling fine, so no worries about his status for Sunday.
Oh, and quarterback Teddy Bridgewater practiced again with full participation. He hasn't officially been coronated as the starter by Mike Zimmer, who said yesterday that he expects him to play. But it's not difficult to read between the lines on this one. He will start, barring a setback, of course.
Outside linebacker Chad Greenway (ribs) and tight end Kyle Rudolph (sports hernia surgery) did not practice. Greenway will have to get on the practice field tomorrow morning to have a chance to play against the Lions. If he doesn't, he will likely be ruled out and miss his third straight game.
Wrapping up the injury report, running backs Jerick McKinnon (ankle) and Matt Asiata (groin) and outside linebacker Michael Mauti (foot) all practiced with full participation for a second straight day.
