Lions rookie Smith learns lesson at training camp

Mike O’Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK — Kevin Smith learned an important lesson for a rookie running back in his first day of training camp with the Detroit Lions.

Smith ran with an upright style at Central Florida. He carried 450 times and led the NCAA in rushing last year, but he’ll have to alter his style to survive in the pros.

“You’ve got to get low,” Smith said after practicing in pads for the first time Thursday morning. “It’s not only recommended, but it’s demanded.”

An upright style exposes a back to heavy hits, creating a risk of injury.

“Yeah, and I do run upright,” Smith said. “It’s probably going to take a couple more times for me to get knocked on my butt to fix it. I don’t get discouraged. It’s the first day of practice in the NFL.”

Smith and veteran Tatum Bell are the top contenders to start at tailback. The Lions ranked 31st in the league in rushing last year.

“Everybody’s on the same page,” Smith said. “All the running backs are coming out here making it a priority to finish runs and try to be explosive.”

CONTRACT UPDATE: Linebacker Jordon Dizon , a second-round draft pick from Colorado, was the only player missing from camp. Contract negotiations were continuing. It was possible that he would be signed before the afternoon practice.

HEALTH WATCH: Four players were put on the physically-unable-to-perform list Thursday morning. The designation prevents them from practice with the team. They can be added to the active roster at any time in camp.

Players on PUP are tight end Dan Campbell (elbow), wide receiver Shaun McDonald (knee), safety Daniel Bullocks (knee) and guard Edwin Mulitalo (elbow).

Their injuries aren’t serious, and all four players are expected to be activated soon.

You can reach Mike O’Hara at (313) 982-3810 or mike.ohara@detnews.com.