5 realistic running back options for Detroit Lions in 2023 NFL Draft

BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 25: Zach Charbonnet #24 of the UCLA Bruins carries the ball against the California Golden Bears during the third quarter of an NCAA football game at California Memorial Stadium on November 25, 2022 in Berkeley, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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5. Roschon Johnson, Texas

Robinson’s college teammate has been tabbed as a fit for the Lions by Pro Football Focus.

"Johnson 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."

The idea of the Lions drafting a pure replacement for Jamaal Williams is a bit of a stretch, as Montgomery will take some of that short yardage and goal line role as a well-rounded workhorse. But Johnson had less than 100 carries in three straight seasons sharing work with Robinson, and after coming to college as a high school quarterback it’s fair to say he’s got room to grow as a running back.

When called upon to be the workhorse for the Longhorns, when Robinson missed the 2021 season finale against Kansas State, Johnson had 31 carries for 179 yards.

Johnson played a lot of special teams in college, which will help him make an NFL roster as he finds his way at the next level. There appears to be some upside here, and some one may get a future starter when taking the “other guy” out of the Texas backfield.

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