5 under the radar free agents the Detroit Lions can steal

Joe McKnight

Sep 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Joe McKnight (22) scores a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the game at Sun Life Stadium. The Chiefs defeated the Dolphins 34-15. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

I want to attach a disclaimer to this. If the Lions do decide to select a running back in the NFL Draft, then there is no need for this pick up. The Lions have been known to miss on positions of need in the draft before so here’s this suggestion. Joe McKnight is an interesting name that you may not have heard of. A 4th round selection by the Jets in 2010, McKnight has spent most of his career as a backup. Playing behind Chris Ivory or Jamal Charles will make anybody look like a nobody.

The reason I suggest McKnight is because when he gets the ball he produces with it. He doesn’t have mass numbers and that’s fine. What I’m looking is the 6.0 yards per carry on 30 caries. Or 4.8 yards per carry on 39 caries. McKnight doesn’t score a million touchdowns and he’ll never make a Pro Bowl but what does he do? (points at Jonah Hill) He picks up yards. He would fit in nicely with the Lions running back committee approach. Due to a torn Achilles tendon he’ll be cheaper than penny candy.