Detroit Lions: The Kerryon Johnson era has begun in Motown

Rookie running back Kerryon Johnson put on a show in the Detroit Lions first preseason game against the Oakland Raiders Friday night.

Auburn’s Kerryon Johnson was the sixth running back taken in the 2018 NFL Draft, selected in the second round by the Detroit Lions. Of those six rookies, only one has averaged more yards per carry than Johnson so far in the preseason. And that was the number two overall pick in the draft, the New York Giants’ Saquon Barkley.

That fact simply highlights just how well Johnson played Friday night against the Oakland Raiders in his preseason debut. Kerryon led the Lions in rushing yards with 34 on seven carries, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. He also showcased his abilities as a receiver, racking up four catches for 33 yards.

It was an impressive debut for Johnson, who was proceeded in the game by running backs, LeGarrette Blount and Ameer Abdullah. Both veterans had solid performances as well, with Abdullah scoring the only touchdown in the game for Detroit.

But it was Johnson who really ignited a stagnant Lions’ offense, scampering for an impressive 57-yard run to start the third quarter that was unfortunately called back for a holding penalty on fellow rookie, offensive tackle Tyrell Crosby.

But Johnson’s smooth yet powerful running style combined with his abilities as a receiver out of the backfield should excite fans about his potential as the Lions’ future workhorse.

Johnson was a beast at Auburn, rushing for 1,391 yards and 18 touchdowns last season in only 12 games. He also had 24 receptions for 194 yards and two more scores. The largest concern surrounding Johnson is his durability, as he has a laundry list of serious injuries tracing back all the way to high school.

But as a member of the Lions in 2018, Johnson will not be asked to carry the load alone. With veterans like Blount and Abdullah also seeing significant snaps, the rookie runner will simply be asked to be a spark plug for a Motown offense that needs a serious boost to their running game.

But rest assured, after Friday night’s electric performance, the Kerryon Johnson era has officially begun in the Motor City.