Re-signing Joique Bell Helps if Abdullah Can’t Return
By Matt Urben
Lions make multiple roster moves.
The Lions signed RB Joique Bell and DB Asa Jackson on Tuesday, in the wake of injuries at running back and corner. The Lions shut down Armonty Bryant and Brandon Pettigrew to open up the roster space for these much-needed additions.
Bell was a fan-favorite that was released in the offseason. At 30-years-old, his best days are likely behind him. He accumulated 2,235 yards and 22 TDs in four years as a do-it-all backup, who eventually became Detroit’s starter in 2015.
After an unsuccessful stint with the Bears, he was again released. The Lions add Bell to a backfield that includes Theo Riddick, Zach Zenner and Dwayne Washington. How much is he likely to contribute? It’s hard to say, but he’s a guy that is familiar with the team and system, plus averaged 4 yards per carry as a Lion.
Most importantly, it gives the Lions some flexibility should second-year running back, Ameer Abdullah, not be able to return from his foot injury. Adbullah is eligible to come back but is reportedly still in a walking boot. On the bright side, it was also reported last week that a recent visit to the doctor revealed no structural damage. Detroit is hoping for the best, but it’s hard to predict how close he really is.
Whether Abdullah comes back or not, however, it’s too risky to assume he will get back to full strength in 2016. This is why Bell’s signing makes sense in the short and long term. The Lions have been near the bottom of the league all season in terms of running the ball. Bell gives the team a power back, capable of coming in on short-yardage situations.
Zach Zenner may not be too happy about Bell’s signing because he has a fairly similar skill-set. There’s no guarantee Bell will even play any time soon, but he’s an upgrade over Justin Forsett. Theo Riddick is a talented player, however, he’s not a true between-the-tackles runner.
Asa Jackson, meanwhile, is in his fifth NFL season, coming off the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad. Jackson was signed in the wake of Detroit losing nickel corner Quandre Diggs for the season. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin was with Baltimore when Jackson was drafted and he was the defensive backs coach at the time.
Detroit’s secondary has been improving over the past few weeks, yet it will no doubt take a hit without Diggs. Johnthan Banks didn’t work out and Detroit needed to add somebody. Neither player is likely to make a huge impact, but they are low-risk signings that the team is wise to make.
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