Where are the Detroit Lions at the running back position?

AMEER ABDULLAH

2018 Outlook with Detroit Lions – DOUBTFUL

Running back Ameer Abdullah’s greatest value to Detroit might be on the trade market. It would be nice to get back that 2019 third round pick that was given to the New England Patriots in the 2018 draft. Even a “Day 3” pick (rounds 4-7) may have to suffice.

Abdullah has shown flashes, but his years in Detroit have been filled with injuries and disappointment. At this point, does he have value as the fourth or fifth running back on the roster? Probably not.

The biggest reason that Abdullah has no value at the bottom of the roster is that he has little impact on special teams.

Abdullah could be used as a return specialist, but cornerback Jamal Agnew and wide receiver T.J. Jones did a good job last year. Plus, each of them make contributions at their positions more than Abdullah has at his.

Basically, for Abdullah, the best role is as a starter.

Abdullah will be given a chance this offseason to show why he was drafted so high (second round, 2015). But his days are numbered.

The running back position will look very different in 2018. As Detroit Lions fans, this is what we wanted to see: some new talent brought into the fold.

Next: Detroit Lions: The best draft picks of the past decade

Hopefully, competition breeds an effective running game. There may not be a “Barry Sanders” on this roster, but there may be the right combination to make the running game exciting again. If the offense becomes balanced between pass and run, the rest of the NFL should be on notice. It could be the first step towards postseason success.