Detroit Lions: Is signing Mark Ingram still on the table?

The Detroit Lions were reportedly hoping to meet with free agent running back Mark Ingram this week. But does the signing of Zack Zenner nix those plans?

The Detroit Lions had a busy Monday. During the first day of the legal tampering portion of NFL free agency, Motown landed some big names. Free agents like pass rusher Trey Flowers, wide receiver Danny Amendola, tight end Jesse James and cornerback Justin Coleman figure to transform this Lions’ roster in 2019.

But Detroit’s front office isn’t done. Rumors of interest in several other prime free agents have surfaced including linebackers Anthony Barr and C.J. Mosley, both of whom are reportedly now headed elsewhere. And due to a recent signing by the Lions on Tuesday, their rumored interest in a top-tier free agent running back may also be waning.

Earlier today it was reported that the Lions had re-signed veteran running back Zach Zenner to a one-year deal. And according to a report by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, that could mean Detroit is no longer interested in signing former New Orleans Saints’ running back Mark Ingram.  Here’s what Birkett wrote about Ingram …

"“[The Lions] expressed interest in a handful of free-agent running backs, and hoped to bring Flint product Mark Ingram in for a free-agent visit later this week, but in the end re-signed the reliable Zenner … [Ingram] is expected to have a contract in place elsewhere when the free-agent signing period opens at 4 p.m. Wednesday.”"

Ingram has played the past eight seasons in New Orleans after the Saints selected him in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft out of Alabama. The two-time Pro Bowler has posted his only two 1,000-yard rushing seasons in the past three years. Last season, Ingram recorded 645 yards and six touchdowns in 12 games.

The fact that the Lions are even considering adding a big name free agent at running back is very interesting. Detroit has clearly found their starter of the foreseeable future in Kerryon Johnson. And Theo Riddick still figures to play his role as a third-down receiving threat out of the backfield. The signing of Zenner should give the Lions’ a reliable backup to Johnson who can also contribute on special teams.

But does Zenner’s presence really rule out an Ingram signing? Given Johnson’s extensive injury history, one that extends all the way back to high school, it would not be wise for Detroit to believe the second-year runner can be the team’s sole workhorse. Especially given the fact he missed six games of his rookie season with a knee injury.

And Zenner’s presence should not be viewed as anything other than a backup role based on the fact he’s had six starts in four seasons on a team that was desperate for a consistent rushing attack.

Although it appears that Ingram may be landing with the Baltimore Ravens or even returning to the Saints, the mere fact the Lions were interested in him likely means the Motor City isn’t done addressing the position. And there are plenty of other quality candidates still available in free agency.

Despite the Zach Zenner signing, the Detroit Lions could still be in the market for a veteran running back. Some free agent runners to watch include Jeremy Hill, Jay Ajayi, C.J. Anderson, Tevin Coleman, Doug Martin, Adrian Peterson and T.J. Yeldon. The name that stands out to me on this list is Hill. He’s a former New England Patriot who had his best season with the Cincinnati Bengals under running backs coach Kyle Caskey, who is now in Detroit in the same position.