He has let his actions do most of the talking during the first several weeks of the team's offseason workout program. Culpepper, who weighed 292 pounds when he was signed midseason last year, has dropped significant weight.

"He came in this year about 260 (pounds), so he's definitely getting himself in shape and he's just very upbeat and positive. He's a veteran guy who brings that veteran leadership, and it's very noticeable out there," said veteran receiver Bryant Johnson, a free agent signed in the offseason. "He looks good."

Tackle George Foster, who recently re-signed with the team, said Culpepper is making a statement to his teammates.

"I've only been here about three days, but the biggest thing I can say is that he's leading by example. The guy looks amazing," Foster said. "He looks like he's coming out of college, and that takes dedication in itself. He's been working and he made an impression on me. He means business."

Culpepper was out of Football last year until early November when he signed with the Lions. A week later, he was in the starting lineup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

He started five games, completing 52 percent of his passes with four touchdowns, six interceptions and a passer efficiency rating of 63.9.

Culpepper missed parts of the three previous seasons -- with three teams -- because of injury.

"You can't just walk in after you've been out and you've been hurt. Those injuries take awhile. I was surprised he was able to come back and play in some games that quick," Foster said. "It shows the kind of athlete he is and the ability he has."

While Culpepper is the Lions' clear No. 1 quarterback, there are rumors the team will take Georgia's Matthew Stafford with the first overall draft pick.

The speculation does not bother Culpepper, Foster said.

"He's been a Pro Bowl quarterback, man, and he's played in some big games. I'm pretty sure it doesn't shake him," Foster said. "It might push him to be better and be prepared, but I'm pretty sure he's not worried about it at all."