New Lions depth chart lists Fairley as starter

The Detroit Lions released a depth chart Monday for next week's regular-season opener against the New York Giants that includes defensive tackle Nick Fairley making an apparent return to the starting lineup.

Fairley, a talented but inconsistent former first-round draft pick, was demoted from starter to second-team, behind C.J. Mosley, before the second preseason game because of weight issues and poor effort.

The Lions' coaching staff, however, has been encouraged by Fairley's performance of late.

Fairley, along with cornerback Darius Slay, are arguably the two biggest keys to this season for the Lions' defense. He's in a contract year after the team decided not to pick up his option for 2015, putting him in line to become an unrestricted free agent next March.

The Lions were counting on that providing motivation for their enigmatic player who has the potential to be a Pro Bowl selection. They need that type of consistency from him for the defensive line to live up to expectations and help overcome a secondary that again appears to be a weak link.

The other interesting development with the depth chart was at right tackle, where LaAdrian Waddle was listed ahead of Corey Hilliard. The two players have been in a tight competition while sharing snaps with the starters throughout the preseason.

Coach Jim Caldwell hasn't confirmed the starting lineup, but it's assumed that the depth chart is accurate, barring changes between now and next Monday night.