Understanding the NFL Draft and the Detroit Lions Needs
By Mike Payton
Running Back
Oct 4, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Miami Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson (8) runs the ball against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the first quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
The Lions are in need of a running back that can be an every down, in between the tackles kind of guy.
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Looking at the scheme it’s easy to see that the Lions a trying to implement an offense that mimics the New Orleans Saints. One thing that made the Saints so successful is the running back by committee approach they took in route to winning their first Super Bowl.
The Lions already have 2/3 of that committee in place with Joique Bell being the hard running bruiser back and Riddick being the pass catching Sproles like back. Now the Lions need a guy that can handle the brunt of the workload.
The Lions do not need anything flashy or name brand so I wouldn’t expect Melvin Gordon in the first. Although i must say I would be ok with that. The Lions could get an absolute steal in 2nd or 3rd rounds with a guy like Duke Johnson.
Johnson is not a major name but fits the scheme quite well and can flat pick up yards. That’s all the Lions need. Just a guy that picks up yards.
What do you think? Do the Lions need to fill any other positions in the draft? Leave your comments below and feel free to yell at me on Twitter @Lionmik26