Detroit Lions Draft 2017: A Running Back for Every Round

By Zac Snyder | Apr 2, 2017

Dec 13, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) hands the ball off to Detroit Lions running back Ameer Abdullah (21) against the St. Louis Rams during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 5, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Louisiana Lafayette Ragin Cajuns running back Elijah McGuire (15) runs the ball against Kentucky Wildcats tight end C.J. Conrad (15) safety Marcus McWilson (15) in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Kentucky defeated Louisiana Lafayette 40-33. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 6

If the Lions are in the market for a running back with one of their two sixth round picks, Elijah McGuire could be an interesting option. Ultimately, he could find himself off the board before the Lions get their chance here, as he compares to his former college teammate Kenneth Dixon – a former fourth round pick.

Tough, athletic and an accomplished pass catcher means McGuire can be on the field in a number of situations. That kind of versatility gives an offense options, both during the course of a game and as depth for when injuries hit.

His versatility includes the dimension of being able to line up in the slot because of his pass catching abilities. That probably wouldn’t play into the Lions’ offensive mix in 2017, but could be an opportunity for McGuire to grow into a bigger role in the future if he ends up a Lions pick.

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