Detroit Lions running back Mikel Leshoure hopes to play in the Lions' preseason game this weekend against the Oakland Raiders, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.
With his participation in practice Monday, Leshoure has now practiced on consecutive days for the first time since his hamstring injury on July 28. The second-year running back out of the University of Illinois missed all of last season with a torn Achilles and will miss the first two regular season games with suspension after two offseason marijuana arrests. He understands the importance of gaining game experience as soon as he can.
"I definitely want to get my feet wet a little bit with a couple preseason (games)," Leshoure said. "Get some reps under my belt. I know I don't want to get thrown into the fire Week 3 coming straight in to it."
With running backs Jahvid Best and Stefan Logan injured, Leshoure's availability is vital for the Detroit Lions' backfield. Kevin Smith looks to be the Week 1 starter.
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