It’s no secret that Lions coach Jim Schwartz loves his players to be multi-dimensional. The best way to earn a roster spot is to heed to this standard. It’s especially important now with the team in rebuilding mode.

So it was really no surprise to see tight end Jake Nordin line up at fullback during the Organized Team Activities.

“We’re getting a little flexible with our tight ends playing some fullback and mixing it around. It’s something Casey did for us last year. You know we put a lot of stress on multi-dimensional players and that’s one of the things he can do,’’ Schwartz said of Nordin who is 6-foot-3 and 255 pounds.

He played in four games last season, starting in one. Signed as a free agent tight end to the practice squad late in the 2008 season, he’s now listed as a fullback on the roster. The only other experienced fullback that the Lions bring back is Jerome Felton.

Nordin has some experience at the new position.

“It hasn’t bee from a true fullback right behind the quarterback fullback. He’s been offset and things like that. He’s executed all the responsibilities of a fullback before as have the other tight ends. (Brandon) Pettigrew did that last year, Casey did that last year, it’s part of what they’re asked to do.’’

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)