Detroit Lions to Sign Free Agent RB Stevan Ridley
By Zac Snyder
The Detroit Lions are making another depth signing in free agency with running back Stevan Ridley announcing his move on Instagram.
The Detroit Lions aren’t quite done in free agency as they are adding free agent running back Stevan Ridley. The Lions hosted Ridley on a free agent visit earlier in the week.
The news broke via a lengthy post on Ridley’s Instagram account in which he thanked the New York Jets organization and fans for his one year there before announcing his move to Detroit:
More from Detroit Lions
- Lions vs. Bears Week 14 Opening Odds Disrespect Detroit
- Signing This Former Pro-Bowl CB Would Be Huge Mistake for Lions
- Forecasting the Rest of This Lions Season (Score Predictions)
- Lions Get Exciting Injury Update on Rookie QB Hendon Hooker
- Betting Preview: Best Bets for Lions vs. Packers Thanksgiving Day Game
"New York I hate that I couldn’t do more for you this past year, but the opportunity y’all gave me after my injury to do what I love the most.. I can never put a price on. The relationships I’ve gained with my brothers in New York, as well as developing a sense of true patience will take me much further beyond the game of football. Coach Bowles you truly are a leader of men. The Jets Organization is on the up and coming, and I wish you guys nothing but the best. John Mellody and the Jets training staff were an absolute blessing as well. A1 and arguably the best out there! To the Organization and city of NEW YORK I truly thank you for all the love. But now it’s on to Detroit for me! I can’t be happier for another shot to tote this pill and showcase the gifts I’ve been truly blessed with! Detroit, I’ve got a suprise for you this year, I promise. I’m ready to get to work with my new family, so April 18th can’t come soon enough! Lets eat fellas, and this year we want the whole plate!!"
The connection with Bob Quinn going back to Ridley’s days with the New England Patriots and the release of Joique Bell made Ridley a natural fit to get a look in Detroit. Similar to the team’s deal with free agent guard Geoff Schwartz, Ridley comes to Detroit on a one-year deal.
RB Stevan Ridley is signing a one-year deal with the Detroit #Lions, a source confirms.
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) April 1, 2016
It’s a low risk move for the Lions who have a need for a bigger back to add to the mix with Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick. Ridley was limited last season following a mid-season return from an ACL tear he suffered during the 2014 season, his last with the Patriots.
Coming back from the injury and being behind Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell on the Jets depth chart led to Ridley posting a career-low statistical season but should be fully recovered and ready to compete with Zach Zenner for carries earmarked for a bigger back.
Next: Lions RB Options in 2016 NFL Draft
Adding Ridley to the mix is nice for offseason depth but using a draft pick on a running back could still be on the table if the value is right late in day two or on day three of the 2016 NFL Draft.