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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Nov 19, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back De’Veon Smith (4) avoids the tackle by Indiana Hoosiers defensive back Tony Fields (19) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 7

Michigan may have had more talented backs on the roster but it was De’Veon Smith that Jim Harbugh trusted most with the football. Smith easily led the Wolverines in rushing attempts in each of Harbaugh’s first two seasons in Ann Arbor.

A tough, hard runner, Smith also fancies himself the best pass protecting running back in the entire draft. You can bet that the things Harbaugh liked about Smith will be liked by NFL evaluators as well.

If the Lions are truly content with the majority of their running back depth chart but want to add a strictly power back to the roster, Smith makes as a late-round or undrafted free agent option.

Next: A Defensive End for Every Round

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