Due to Kerryon Johnson’s troubling injury history, could that put top free agent running back Le’Veon Bell on the Detroit Lions‘ radar?
There have been many ideas put forth about the Detroit Lions adding another running back to the mix. Many seem to view Kerryon Johnson, the Lions second rounder selection last season, as the team’s top running back heading in 2019.
But Johnson’s injury history is extensive, going all the way back to high school. The 21-year old played in only ten games his rookie season due to a knee injury. He’s clearly a talented runner when he is on the field as evidenced by his 641 rushing yards last season and 5.4 yards per carry average.
But the fact remains, Johnson missed six critical games for Detroit in 2018. And as a result, the Lions lost four of those matchups without him. Based on his past, it would be unwise for Detroit to place their rushing hopes solely on his availability.
In fact, Johnson may be better suited to be part of a tandem. And whomever the other running back is in this pairing must be able to carry the load on his own if needed.
But could that player be the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Le’Veon Bell? NFL Network insider Ian Rappaport listed the Lions as a possible landing spot for Bell on Good Morning Football recently.
"“There are teams that have money, that could spend for a running back. Bucs would be one. Texans would be one. What about the Lions? They’ve had running back issues to solve.”"
Co-host Kyle Brandt also mentioned the fact Bell went to Michigan State, which could make playing for Detroit more attractive. But would the Lions be interested in a player who was willing to sit out all of 2018?
Detroit has had a problem attracting top end free agents. Therefore the Lions’ front office may be willing to overlook Bell’s perceived locker room issues in order to land a possible Hall of Fame talent. His addition to the lineup would be a tremendous boost to Motown’s offense.
Turning 27-years old next week, Bell is a five-year veteran who is a three-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler. In 2017, he posted 1,291 rushing yards and a career-high nine touchdowns. Bell also recorded a career-high 85 receptions for 655 yards and two more scores.
But in order for the Detroit Lions to land Le’Veon Bell, it will cost them a pretty penny. According to NFL.com, Bell is wanting a salary normally reserved for quarterbacks, somewhere in the range of $17 million per season. For comparison, Los Angeles Rams’ running back Todd Gurley signed a four-year, $60 million contract extension with a whopping $45 million guaranteed last July.