One defensive tackle showed up for the first day of the Detroit Lions' voluntary conditioning program. One did not.

But it's probably not how you think.

Star Ndamukong Suh was the no-show Monday for the start of the offseason program, receiver Jeremy Ross told reporters in Allen Park, while the embattled Nick Fairley was in attendance.

Suh's snub isn't huge news. He was a defensive captain last season and his attendance would establish a better precedent for the rest of the team, but he's also a workout warrior who is routinely one of the league's best-conditioned players.

Rather, it is Fairley's appearance that is most noteworthy.

Fairley has had moments of brilliance during his three years in Detroit, but has mostly underwhelmed, and his weight and questionable offseason commitment have consequently come under scrutiny.

General manager Martin Mayhew said at the combine in January he wanted Fairley to be more involved in the team's offseason program. He said in March the team had tired of asking Fairley to be more involved the past three years, and elected to forgo his $5.5 million option for 2015.

What that means is Fairley now is in a contract year, and Detroit hopes that is the motivation he needs to take this offseason more seriously. And so far, it appears he has.

Fairley did not speak with reporters. But his presence in Allen Park is an early sign that the team's risky move has grabbed the defensive tackle's attention.

Detroit will be limited to strength and conditioning drills for two weeks. It can begin on-field instruction during the voluntary minicamp, which begins April 22.