Detroit Lions training camp preview Running Backs

The Lions return 3 of their top 4 backs from 2014. Reggie Bush was released and the Lions drafted Abdullah and Burton. Could be the strength of the Lions offense.

Joique Bell 6th year 5th in Detroit Signed of the Saints practice squad 2011.
Contract: 2 years remain $3.5 cap hit

Wayne State: 44 games 1181/6728/88 td
47 games 10 starts
471/1924/18 rush 139/1354/1 rec 7 fumbles lost

Analysis:
Coming off of two solid years, Joique is the starter in Detroit. He is coming off of Achilles and knee surgery. Is he in shape? Can he stay healthy?

Ameer Abdullah Rookie 2nd round pick
Contract: 4 years $755,559 hit

Nebraska: 813/4588/39 rush 73/690/7 rec 61/1592/1 KOR 31/316/1 PR

Analysis:

Replaces Reggie as the quick back. Will have to shoulder the load until Joiquie is healthy. Caught the ball well in mini camp.

Theo Riddick 3rd year in Detroit 6th round pick 2013
2 year remain $ 607,750 Hit

28 games 2 starts
29/78/1 rush 38rec 342 yards 4 td
Notre Dame: 244/1169/5 rush 120/1263/8 rec
47 KOR 1051 yards


Analysis: Great catching the ball but yet to show the ability to carry the mail. Will have a bigger role until Joique returns to 100%.

George Winn 2nd year in Detroit FA 2014
1 year on contract $510,000

12 games
19 carries 73 yards 3 tackles
Cincinnati: 37 games 321/1710/15 rush 19/159/0 rec

Analysis:

Hard runner who will get what is there and fall forward. Cannot catch nor block. Decent special teams guy. Will have to fight for a roster spot.

Zach Zenner UDFA 2015
3 year contract $436,000 hit

South Dakota State: 52 games 1095/6548/61 rush 95/909/8 rec

Analysis:
My new favorite Detroit Lion. Comes to Detroit with a legit chance to make the roster. He can run and catch. Could surprise in the future.


Desmond Martin UDFA 2015
3 year contract $436,000

Wayne State: 48 games 510/2791/24 td rush

Analysis:
Local guy from Wayne State. Tough runner who lacks speed. Long shot.

Fullbacks:

Michael Burton Rookie 5th round pick
4 year contract $481,089 hit

Analysis:

Lions took Burton in the 5th round. He will make the team. Can a make an impact? Good blocker and receiver. Played special teams at Rutgers.

Emil Igwenagu 4th year in the NFL 2nd in Detroit FA in 2014

Analysis:

Emil took the 1st team reps in mini camp. Has 3 games of NFL experience. Will have to clearly beat out Burton for a spot.