CB Chris Houston back at practice; Calvin Johnson sits again

Lions corner Chris Houston made a late appearance to the practice field Wednesday without a helmet and sporting a cast on his left hand. He did not practice.

On Thursday, Houston made another late appearance to practice, but this time, he was wearing a helmet and was ready to participate.

Houston appeared to have a softer cast on the left hand and took part in individual drills in the portion of practice open to the media.

Receiver Calvin Johnson did not practice for a second straight day with that Achilles injury.

Also not practicing were: defensive tackle Corey Williams, defensive tackle Nick Fairley and safety Louis Delmas.

Defensive end Willie Young (ankle) was back at practice after not participating on Wednesday.