-- Mike Williams has come out of the dog house and into the Lions' plans for the rest of the sea... Mike Williams due to play m

Williams had his first extensive playing time of the season in the 27-10 loss to Miami on Thanksgiving Day. He caught one pass and dropped another, but his overall performance then and in recent practices has been good enough to warrant more playing time.

Williams, who didn't seem interested at times at time earlier this season, talked Monday about the expectations he had. Williams said he has come to realize even if he didn't do everything perfectly, the coaching staff was interested in effort and a commitment to the program.

"Here's a guy who came into the league at a really young age (Williams is 22). A lot of times, those guys who are propped up like that have a false sense of what this league is really about.

"There's a maturity about him that's happening that's really exciting. All the things we hoped and wished he'd be, I think he'll be. I think he's going to take off. He's working at it hard now."

"When he runs as fast as he can run, he's got plenty of speed," Martz said. "With his size, he can put his body on people and take that ball away. He has that knack."

The play of , who has moved from left end to tackle, is one factor that could cause Rogers to be moved. Another is Rogers could play at a heavier weight. would be in the tackle rotation.

"It's something I'd like to look at," Marinelli said. "Cory's really starting to shine. We've got a chance to have a tandem there that's special."

Rogers has missed the past five games. He was suspended for four games for violating the NFL's policy on steroids and related drugs. Rogers was eligible to play against the Dolphins but was inactive. He is recovering from surgery on his right knee.

The injury was reported as a severe bone bruise, but there apparently was a break in the bone below the knee. Tucker tried to play, despite severe pain and weakness in the joint.

Cody, who is on injured reserve (dislocated right big toe) is scheduled to see a specialist today in North Carolina. Surgery is possible, Cody said.

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