Ailing Lions TE Eric Ebron sits out practice

Allen Park — Lions tight end Eric Ebron missed practice Thursday with a hamstring injury that limited him Wednesday.

It's the first practice Ebron has missed during his rookie season, and if for some reason he's limited for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints, the Lions could be forced to make a weekend roster move to add depth at the position.

As of Thursday, Brandon Pettigrew is the only healthy tight end with Joseph Fauria still recovering from an ankle injury. With Fauria and Ebron out, practice squad tight end Jordan Thompson should see an expanded role in practice.

Meanwhile, there's a growing chance the Saints could have their top tight end available as Jimmy Graham (shoulder) was limited in practice Thursday. NFL Network reported Sunday that Graham would be out the next two or three games but coach Sean Payton hadn't ruled him out as of Wednesday.

Although Ebron was a new absence, the Lions had a couple players return Thursday after sitting Wednesday. Defensive end Ziggy Ansah (toe) and wide receiver Jeremy Ross (ankle) participated during the portion open to the media.

Ansah and running back Reggie Bush (ankle) were limited, but Ross was a full participant.

Wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle), running back Theo Riddick (hamstring) and linebacker Travis Lewis (quad) remained out.

Linebacker Kyle Van Noy (core muscle) practiced for the second straight day. This is the first week he can practice while on injured reserve with designation to return, but he can't play until Week 10.

jkatzenstein@detroitnews.com

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