Where are the Detroit Lions at the running back position?

ZACH ZENNER

2018 Outlook with Detroit Lions – GOOD

The Detroit Lions did resign running back Zach Zenner to a contract this offseason, which amounted to about $1 million for just one year. It is not a huge investment, but Zenner does have some advantages.

First, he is very apt when it comes to pass blocking. This skill speaks to his work ethic and toughness. Zenner is willing to put his body between oncoming pass rushers and quarterback Matthew Stafford. This is not an easy thing to do, and it does add value.

Zenner’s other advantage is that he is a special teams player, and that can’t be overlooked. For the last four guys vying for a spot on the Detroit roster, special teams will play a major role.

DWAYNE WASHINGTON

2018 Outlook with Detroit Lions – QUESTIONABLE

Drafted in the seventh round of the 2016 draft, running back Dwayne Washington really needs to show something to stay on this roster.

Washington did not take a significant leap in his second season. If anything, he took a step back.

In 2016, Washington had 2.9 yards per rush attempt. And in 2017, it was just 2.2 yards per carry. The former is bad enough, but the latter may show his inability to play in the NFL.

Washington does contribute on special teams, so that might be his saving grace. Still, the next guy has a similar shot at a roster spot, but with superior numbers.