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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4. Kendre Miller, TCU

Miller is on the Lions’ radar, if a top-30 visit on the last day to do so with draft prospects is any indicator. He was part of a backfield committee at TCU for a couple years, before becoming the lead guy last year and having a big season (1,399 yards, 17 touchdowns, 6.2 yards per carry). He teased that nose for the end zone in 2021, with seven touchdowns on 83 carries.

Some of the NFL comps for Miller are interesting.–Nick Chubb (Walter Football), Javonte Williams (The Huddle), Aaron Jones (The 33rd Team). On the less inspiring end, Bleacher Report had Jeff Wilson as the comp for Miller.

There are certain areas Miller needs to get better in if he’s going to really succeed at a high level at the next level (pass blocking, pass-catching). But that does not make him unique among incoming running backs, in this or any draft year.

The Lions may seek a bit of a developmental guy at running back in this draft, with Montgomery lined up to hold down the fort for a couple years. Miller feels like a higher end option in that realm, as a third or fourth-round prospect with the potential to be the lead guy down the road.

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