Lions running back Godwin Igwebuike hears opportunity knocking
With D’Andre Swift out for at least Week 13, Godwin Igwebuike is in line for more opportunities on offense.
After bouncing around the NFL and playing for the Seattle Dragons in the XFL, Godwin Igwebuike landed with the Detroit Lions on a futures deal after the 2020 season. Listed as a safety, he caught offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn’s eye during OTAs last spring. A strong camp earned him a roster spot as a running back, joining rookie Jermar Jefferson behind D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams.
It’s not a shock to find that Igwebuike hasn’t had many touches out of the Detroit backfield this season, on 20 offensive snaps (all in the last four games). But he has made the most of them, with 85 yards and a touchdown on six carries and four catches for 36 yards. He has seen far more work on special teams (198 snaps), and he’s averaging 23.9 yards per kickoff return thus far.
With Swift out this week and perhaps longer, Williams will step into the lead role in Detroit’s backfield. But opportunity is knocking for Igwebuike, and he hears it.
Godwin Igwebuike is ready to seize opportunity
Via Benjamin Raven of MLive.com:
"Of course, with Swift being down, me and Jermar have to step it up, just come alongside Jamaal as he goes to war like he does every week. Really look up to that guy. I’m definitely excited for the opportunity, just continuing to prove myself. Obviously, being new, but it’s feeling natural to me. It’s been a cool journey and just getting another opportunity to show that here this coming Sunday, get some more carries. I’m definitely excited for it."
Williams is a capable back, but he isn’t nearly as dynamic as Swift is. Igwebuike has shown plenty of promise in limited work, and with more opportunities coming to him a hidden gem may not stay hidden for much longer.
