Johnson returns to Lions practice as Schwartz praises his attitude

ALLEN PARK, Mich. - Calvin Johnson returned to Lions practice Tuesday, a day after missing camp for what head coach Jim Schwartz called a "regular day off."

The wide receiver was back at it, first in line for his position group and making things look easy as usual. Schwartz sang the praises of his Pro Bowler's consistent work ethic.

"It's an ideal situation when you have the best player that's very talented, that's humble, that goes out and works," Schwartz said.

The fourth-year head coach said he recently watched Johnson make a play in an individual period that warranted a joke.

"It was a route (against the) air, and he had to drop his weight. He's got a long way to drop his weight. And it was just perfect. He sort of smiled."

To which Schwartz told him: "You keep working like that, you might make the team this year."

Johnson agreed to terms on an eight-year contract worth up to $132 million this offseason. He's been pegged as EA Sports Madden 13 cover model. His stock continues to rise, and offensive coordinator Scott Linehan says his top wideout has gotten bigger and faster.

As if that was possible.

"That's the way he treats himself. He doesn't treat himself like he just got a huge contract. He treats himself as if he's trying to earn his way," Schwartz explained.

NOTES: Defensive tackle Corey Williams, linebacker Stephen Tulloch, running back Mikel Leshoure, defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch, and defensive tackle Sammie Hill, left tackle Jeff Backus missed practice Tuesday.

Wide receivers Ryan Broyles and Patrick Edwards returned to practice Tuesday.