Running back of out of University of Texas named fit for Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions may take a running back in the upcoming draft, and a back out of the University of Texas has been deemed a fit.

Even with the signing of David Montgomery, which was a shrewd upgrade when contract talks with Jamaal Williams never seemed to get going, the Detroit Lions could consider taking a running back in the upcoming draft if it fits.

Given the short shelf life at the running back position, keeping the pipeline full makes plenty of sense. D’Andre Swift is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and he’s as good as gone one way or another over the next 11-12 months. Montgomery’s contract is essentially a two-year pact.

The idea of the Lions taking a running back in the first round feels like a stretch. But for what it’s worth, a chunk of mock drafts have pointed to it at No. 18 overall if the board balls a certain way.

2023 NFL Draft: Running back from University of Texas deemed fit for the Detroit Lions

Day 2 or Day 3 is likely the prime spot for the Lions to draft a running back.

On that note, Mike Renner of Pro Football Focus had deemed one a Day 3 fit for them.

"DETROIT LIONS: RB ROSCHON JOHNSON, TEXASJohnson is a physical, between-the-tackles runner that the Lions need with Jamaal Williams gone. The Texas back broke tackles at a higher rate than anyone in the country last season."

Johnson was of course overshadowed by backfield mate Bijan Robinson, who is the best the running back in this year’s draft and possibly the only one who will go in the first round. But Johnson averaged 5.6 yards per carry and 7.6 yards per reception over his career at Texas, with 23 rushing scores and three receiving touchdowns. He fumbled just once in his college career.

Johnson’s measured a little shorter at the NFL Combine (6-foot) than he was listed in college (6-foot-2), but he’s a powerful straight-line runner at 219 pounds. It’s also notable he played a lot of special teams in college, which will help him make an NFL roster right away.

Johnson wouldn’t have a huge role for the Lions as a rookie if they draft him and things go as planned. But he is an interesting prospect who will come into the NFL with a lot of tread left on the tires, and he seems to have plenty of traits the Lions like.