Detroit Lions free agency: Adrian Peterson or Mark Ingram?

Two of the best runners to ever grace a football field weighed in on which free agent running backs best fit the Detroit Lions’ roster in 2019.

Free agency holds a few solid options at running back, but not many. The pickings are slim for the Detroit Lions.

All-time great running backs LaDainian Tomlinson and Terrell Davis had their thoughts about who they liked for Detroit during a segment on NFL Network’s Total Access. Both had some high-profile projections.

Starting with Tomlinson, he feels that Adrian Peterson, running back for the Washington Redskins last season, best fit is the Lions. Here’s his take according to NFL.com.

"“I could see Adrian going to Detroit. Mentoring that young kid [Kerryon Johnson] but also having the chance to continue to do his own thing.”"

Davis, on the other hand went in a different direction. His choice was former New Orleans Saints’ running back Mark Ingram as a great possible addition for the Motor City.

"“[Ingram’s] still got some good treads on the tire, I think it’s a great fit for him. He wants more of the ball, I’m sure that [Detroit] offense could get him more of that.”"

Davis also made the in-state connect seeing Ingram went to high school in Michigan. I respect their Hall of Fame opinions regarding who is the best choice, but I side with Tomlinson.

The fact Peterson ran for 1,046 yards, averaged a healthy 4.2 yards per carry and scored seven touchdowns at 33 years old amazes me. As a receiver, he tacked on 20 catches for 208 yards and a touchdown.

Not that Davis is wrong per se, but I’m not as big on Ingram. Granted, he averaged more yards per carry at 4.7, but a four game suspension limited his rushing yards to 647 and touchdowns to 6. Also active as a pass catcher, snagging 21 balls, racking up 170 yards and catching a touchdown.

Both backs makes sense, but Peterson actually has connections to Detroit. Jeff Davidson was his offensive line coach with the Minnesota Vikings from 2011-2015. New offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell also held the same position there from 2007-2010. This makes for an easier transition.

Ingram is younger but he’s not nearly as prolific. His price tag will also be higher. My opinion is one of many. You can’t go wrong with either guy.

Who do you agree with? Who do you think the Detroit Lions should choose? Let us know in the comment section below.