Lions rule 5 starters questionable against Saints

Allen Park — The Detroit Lions have ruled six players, including five starters, questionable for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints.

Defensive end Ziggy Ansah (ankle), safety Don Carey (hamstring), wide receiver Marvin Jones (thigh), running back Theo Riddick (ankle) and linebackers DeAndre Levy (knee) and Tahir Whitehead (knee) are all questionable.

The linebacker situation is the most concerning. Levy hasn't played since the opener, and despite practicing three consecutive weeks, isn't expected to return against New Orleans. And while Whitehead was listed as limited all week, he did very little activity in the portions of practice open to the media.

Nagging ankle injury still an issue for Lions' Ansah

If both Levy and Whitehead are scratched on Sunday, the Lions would likely move Josh Bynes to middle linebacker and increase rookie Antwione Williams' role.

Ansah has been on the injury report since spraining his ankle in Week 2. He's the only player on the list who fully practice on Friday. Riddick and Jones have also routinely shown up on the injury report in recent weeks, but have been playing in games.

Carey, a key contributor on special teams, missed last week's game against the Vikings after injuring his hamstring two weeks ago when the Lions hosted the Jaguars.

jdrogers@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @justin_rogers