Detroit Lions training camp preview: RB

Starter:

Reggie Bush 8th year 1st with the Lions. 91 games in the league. 4 years $16 mil
Cap Hit 2013: $2 mil

Bush is an important addition this offseason, a guy with playmaking ability in space. He did not rank well the last two seasons in a fulltime position with Miami. He ranked #63 in 2011 and #47 in 2012. Bush broke 29 tackles in and lost 4 fumbles. He struggled in pass protection. However, he has speed and is a solid receiver. A back by committee should really play into the hands of the Lions.

Back Up:

Joquie Bell 4th year 3rd with Detroit. 16 games 82/415/3 rush 52/484/0 rec signed thru 2013
2013 Cap Hit: $630,00
W/L 4/12

A break out year in 2012 for Bell. He led the Lions with 30 broken tackles and was ranked # 12 by pro football focus. His strengths include good short area bursts and the ability to run thru arm tackles. He lost 3 fumbles in 2012. It looks like he came into the offseason in great shape and impressed the staff. It appears he moved in front of LeShoure.

Mikel LeShoure 3rd year 14 starts 215/798/9 rush 34/214/0 rec 3 fumbles lost. signed thru 2014.
2013 Cap Hit: $822,157
W/L 3/11

LeShoure was suspended for the first 2 games of 2012 for dope. He came back and really was just a guy for 12 games. The last 2 games he really played well. He broke 21 tackles in 2012 almost half came in the final 6 quarters. LeShoure looked like an NFL back in those games. However, it looks like came in out of shape and tweeked a hamstring. The staff appears to be running out of patience with him. pivotal year for Mikel. He ranked #36 at RB in 2012.

Montell Owens 8th year 1st in the D. 104 games 2 year contract
2013 cap hit: $975,000

An addition for special teams. A pro bowl coverage guy in 2010 and 2011 he makes the team solely on that. He is a decent runner who does give the team good depth. In a perfect world, he would not see the field on offense.

Theo Riddick Rookie 6th round pick 4 year contract
2013 salary cap hit: $427,750

A curious selection in the 6th round. Riddick is a jack of all trades master of none. His strength is catching the ball out of the backfield. His niche will have to special teams coverage to make it. I see him on the practice squad.

Steven Miller Rookie UDFA 3 year contract
2013 cap hit: $407,333

Miller has made a big impression so far. His quickness has many giving a chance to be a return man for the Lions. He will have to impact the game in preseason to get it done. I see him as a practice squad guy.