Lions' Ameer Abdullah: Likely cleared for contact

Abdullah (shoulder) removed his his red jersey at practice Saturday, which means he's likely able to take contact now, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis:

Abdullah has sat out both preseason games as he deals with a lingering shoulder issue. Expect the Lions to be cautious with the second-year back in order to ensure his health entering Week 1. He projects to be the team's No. 1 back on the depth chart, but Theo Riddick will likely be the team's pass-catching specialist out of the backfield.