Forgotten man? Carey has two picks in practice

Allen Park – When Detroit Lions general manager Bob Quinn listed four players in the mix for the starting safety job next to Glover Quin earlier this offseason, he left veteran Don Carey off that list.

It’s not that Carey was legitimately considered a strong candidate for the starting job, but failing to even mention him as part of the competition raised questions about his roster chances.

Carey, apparently didn’t get that memo. The veteran defensive back, who missed the team’s first four training camp practice while on the non-football injury list, intercepted two passes during Monday’s practice, including one off starting quarterback Matthew Stafford.

“I was in position to make some plays today and I made them,” Carey said.

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Carey claimed to be unaware of Quinn’s offseason comments, but also said he can’t be concerned about them.

The Lions had some significant turnover at the safety position this offseason, losing Isa Abdul-Quddus in free agency and opting not to re-signing James Ihedigbo. To fill the void, the team signed Rafael Bush and Tavon Wilson, before drafting Miles Killebrew in the fourth round.

“It’s intense,” Carey said about the competition. “It should be like this every single year because it brings the best out of guys.  We’re trying to be the best and you need someone who can push you to get you there.”

Carey’s advantage comes in special teams. He led the NFL last season with 14 solo tackles on kickoff and punt coverage.