Detroit Lions: 5 offseason needs in 2019
By Jon Dove
Running Back
The Detroit Lions got a terrific rookie year out of Kerryon Johnson. He showed a great burst and the ability to break big plays. Johnson was especially able to provide a spark when he got more carries later in the year.
However, he only played in 10 games, thanks to a knee injury. His durability was one of the question marks surrounding him during last year’s draft process. It’s too early to call him injury-prone, but it’s worth monitoring.
Johnson figures to be the early down back while Theo Riddick continues to get the third down work. He remains one of the better pass-catching backs in the NFL.
The concern is the lack of depth at the position. Both LeGarrett Blount and Zack Zenner are free agents. Between them they totaled 209 carries, with Blount leading the team with 154 rushes. Detroit needs to add some talented depth to feel secure about the running back spot.
Lower-end free agents like Bilal Powell and Jeremy Hill would make sense for the Lions. They would be cost-saving options with the experience required to play a significant role, if needed.
The Lions could also look to a mid-round draft prospect like Penn State’s Myles Sanders. Sanders didn’t get much work at Penn State, but performed well in his only season as a starter.