Detroit Lions linebacker Ashlee Palmer believes that defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is coming out of his "shell" as a team leader this season.

Suh was selected second overall in the 2010 Draft and despite his excellent production, his behaviour on the field has been called into question.

The 26-year-old called a players-only meeting ahead of the new season to discuss their discipline, according to Detroit Free Press

"I wouldn't have seen Suh doing that a couple years ago," Palmer said. "But like I said, he's coming out of his shell.

"I think that's going to be a big positive for us because we know we got him on the boat, and it's all good now."

Detroit open their season against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.