Kevin Smith Injury: Updates on the Detroit Lions RB's Status and Fantasy Value

Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith has been battling an ankle injury in recent weeks that has forced him to miss Sunday's win over the Minnesota Vikings. He's been an important contributor when healthy, so the Lions would like to get him back for a key clash with the Oakland Raiders in Week 15.

Keep checking back to this page throughout the week for updates on Smith's availability and potential fantasy value should he return to the field.

Update: Sunday, Dec. 18 at 3:06 p.m. ET by Kyle Vassalo

Smith is active and slated to start against the Raiders, according to RotoWorld.com.

It's unclear as to what capacity he'll be used, but you shouldn't have any reservations about giving him a start as a No. 2 back. The Lions are entering a must-win game and won't be pulling any punches as they seek a wild-card spot in the wide-open NFC.

Update: Friday, Dec. 16 at 4:35 p.m. ET by Kyle Vassalo

Kevin Smith practiced for the third straight day and is expected to be given the start against the Raiders on Sunday, according to Chris McCosky of The Detroit News.

The Lions are right in the thick of the wild-card hunt and securing their ninth win would make them far more comfortable heading into their final two games against the Chargers and Packers.

Smith getting the nod would give their depleted backfield a huge lift and may be the difference maker in this matchup.

Update: Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 12:30 p.m. ET by Wes O'Donnell

The Lions got their star defensive tackle, Ndamukong Suh, back to practice today but were not as fortunate with running back Kevin Smith. It isn't all bad for the injured starter though. According Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press:

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Running back Kevin Smith went through stretching, then left to work on the side with trainers.

"

It is a good sign that Smith is out there at all, but it is too early to tell if he'll be able to play this week.

Look for more updates on the situation as the week progresses and if Smith can get on the field by Friday it will likely result with him starting this week against the Raiders.

Until that time comes fantasy owners still need to keep eyes on Keiland Williams and possibly Mo Morris.

Monday, Dec. 12, at 2:45 p.m. ET

Smith didn't even test his bothersome ankle before yesterday's game after suffering a setback in practice on Friday, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. Smith is optimistic a return next week is possible after giving the injury more time to heal.

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Yeah, I just had to put the team first," Smith said. "There's other guys that can step in. I just couldn't afford going out there and only giving them another half. I need to finish the game."

"It's gotten a lot better. I didn't have this much time. It's gotten a lot better with the time, resting, a lot of treatment. So I should be good to go.

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Talent has never been a concern for Smith, who's a solid dual-threat option when healthy, but injuries are an issue for him. Assuming he's ready to play on Sunday, he'll be worth starting just because of the sheer volume of touches he should receive.