3 running backs the Detroit Lions could sign after roster cuts and waivers

3. Kenyan Drake

Drake has become well-traveled the last couple years, and he was released by the Indianapolis Colts this week. In a role similar to what he would occupy for the Lions, last year with the Baltimore Ravens, he averaged 4.4 yards per carry (109 carries for 442 yards) with three touchdowns.

The last time he had a sizeable role for a team, 2020 with the Arizona Cardinals, Drake had 955 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. He also has two 50-catch seasons on his resume. even if they were a lifetime ago in running back years (2018 as a Miami Dolphin, 2019 split between the Dolphins and the Cardinals).

It feels like the Colts used Drake as a pawn to push Jonathan Taylor to be a happier camper, set aside any health or contract concerns and come to camp. Once that was off the table, and they couldn't trade Taylor before Tuesday's deadline and kept him on the PUP list, Drake was disposable in favor of younger backs who may have knocked him off the roster anyway.

Drake is not in a position to be choosy, and he won't have a ton of options to land somewhere. But he is a nice possible fit for the Lions as a veteran depth option, and they can definitely do worse.