The Detroit Lions are working toward clinching a berth in the NFL Playoffs in a few weeks, but they can't overlook this weekend's game against the Oakland Raiders. The Lions injury report didn't exactly reveal great news on Thursday, particularly regarding the status of rookie defensive tackle Nick Fairley.

Fairley has been hit-or-miss all season as far as his injury status is concerned. Thursday was another miss, unfortunately, as the big man was downgraded from "limited" to "out."

The Detroit News has more on the situation.

Rookie defensive tackle Nick Fairley, after being a limited participant Wednesday, was not on the practice field Thursday. He's dealing with foot soreness and, as he said Wednesday, there will be good days and bad days.

"I come in, get treated in the morning and if it feels right I practice," he said Wednesday. "If not, then I continue with the treatment."

He still hopes to play Sunday.

Starting running back Kevin Smith was upgraded from out to limited after going through position drills on Thursday.