Detroit Lions: The future at the running back position
The Detroit Lions have two running backs on the roster that have been solid contributors and two entering free agency. What does the future hold?
Similar to previous years, the Detroit Lions ended their season with big questions at the running back position. But this year is different. This year, they know who their bell cow is for next season: running back Kerryon Johnson.
The only other major contributor at the running back position from 2018 under contract for next season is running back Theo Riddick. As the third-down back known for his receiving ability, Riddick has one year left on his contract before he hits free agency in 2020.
Hitting free agency after completing one-year contracts are running backs LeGarrette Blount and Zach Zenner. These are both bigger backs that receive short-yardage and goal-line work. With both of them available to leave the Detroit, the Lions might need to find a replacement.
That’s pretty much it on the current roster for running backs. Of course fullback Nick Bawden was injured and out for the season and fullback Nick Bellore is a free agent. But for this post, let’s stick with big four.
So where do they go from here? The first domino that needs to fall is hiring an offensive coordinator. It ultimately could be this person’s decision as to what running backs fill out this roster. But familiarity of personnel could certainly factor into the gameplan.
Neither Johnson nor Riddick are power backs. Filling that void will certainly happen. And with the Lions history of having four or five backs on the roster, others are sure to join in the coming months. But bringing back a familiar face that can produce would be a great start.
Zenner is the obvious choice to fill the void before seeing what happens in free agency and the draft. He returned to the roster in Week 10 this season and played sparingly until Week 14. In the four games to close out the season he carried the ball 51 times for 237 yards and three touchdowns.
Those are good stats for a Lions running back. Especially considering this team went two years without a 100-yard rusher. Zenner put up 93 yards alone in Week 17. For comparison sake, Blount ran the ball 154 times for 418 yards and five touchdowns in 16 games. Zenner’s stats from the final four games dwarf Blount’s production.
Sure, Blount brought a toughness to the running back group on this team. His mentality and guidance to other running backs shouldn’t be understated. But going forward, the more productive player is a better option to bring back on a one or two year deal.
dark. Next. Detroit Lions - 5 players who could be traded in 2019
Make no mistake, this is Johnson’s show. Eventually, he’s going to need to take a breather and – fingers crossed – this Detroit Lions offense is going to be less predictable and more dynamic in 2019. Bringing in other rushers with fresh legs at certain points during a game is bound to happen. Without going through the other offseason tasks, a running back group of Johnson, Riddick and Zenner would be a great place to start.