Detroit Lions running back group is starting to take shape
By Ash Thompson
Where the running back group stand right now
Theo Riddick is clearly going to be a large part of the Lions offense. He has been unavailable for training camp and the preseason games, however. He had surgery on both wrists earlier in the off-season. Riddick and Ameer Abdullah are locks to make the roster.
Zach Zenner is a versatile player who can contribute on special teams as anything but a returner, and that will likely put him on the roster. Washington has been the Lions most consistent runner, but has only player after the starters sat down. At the moment though he looks like the favorite for the Lions fourth running back spot, as he has done fairly well in kick coverage, and is clearly a better runner than Asiata or Green.
The latter two find themselves in the position of convincing the Lions to keep a fifth running back. Asiata has done more in that regard with his swiss army knife style of play. He is always a usable player, but never the best option for any task.
What to watch for this week
The Lions will likely give Washington some reps against a higher level of competition. Ameer Abdullah may see more prolonged action than he has, but I would not count on it. He is too important to the Lions season to be extensively risked in a game that means nothing. Washington and Zenner will probably see action with the first team.
This will happen so that the Lions can get a bead on where they are in an even competition. For the rest of the Lions running back group, watch the return and coverage teams.
Next: Lions offensive line still a work in progress
Look for numbers 41 and 38 on the screen when the tackle is made. That is going to give you the best idea of which player is more likely to force the Lions to keep him.