James Houston Returns to Practice Thursday

Houston begins his 21-day practice window.

The Detroit Lions returned to practice Thursday to continue their preparations for Saturday's Week 17 showdown with the Dallas Cowboys. 

Defensive lineman James Houston returned to practice, officially beginning his return-to-practice clock. The second-year defender has been sidelined since Week 2. The Lions will have 21 days to decide whether or not to return him to the active roster. 

Defensive back Cam Sutton was not spotted during the portion of Thursday's practice open to the media.

Should Houston return at any point, the Lions will have to part ways with a player already on the active roster. Detroit is currently facing multiple decisions of this nature, as safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson and fullback Jason Cabinda are both in the midst of their return windows. 

Third-year Lions head coach Dan Campbell was uncertain whether the Lions would start Houston's return clock this week. On Tuesday, he said there was a "good chance" he returned to practice, but later clarified that the team wasn't sure. 

Houston was a very productive member of the Lions' pass-rush last season. After being elevated from the practice squad ahead of last season's Thanksgiving game, he burst onto the scene with eight sacks in the final seven games. 

The second-year defender had said recently that he hoped to be back in action before the end of the regular season, with hopes of contributing in the playoffs. 

As a result of his injury, the Lions have missed his presence on the defensive line. The unit has struggled at points to record sacks against opposing passers.

Additionally, offensive tackle Taylor Decker returned to practice, after missing Wednesday. He's expected to play in Saturday's game.