Detroit Lions: 4 Free Agent Running Backs to Target this Offseason
By Bob Heyrman
Matt Breida
This would be very unlikely, but why not at least attempt to submit an offer sheet to Matt Breida, who is set to be a restricted free agent this spring? Breida has turned into quite the find for the San Francisco 49ers.
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The undrafted third-year back is excelling under his head coach Kyle Shanahan’s creative offense. The zone rushing scheme is perfect for Breida’s skill set. Matt’s breakaway speed allows him to hit a hole, accelerate through it, and gallop for substantial gains.
The 49ers spent a significant amount of money on Jerrick McKinnon when he was made available from the Minnesota Vikings. Injuries have prevented him from making a single appearance in a 49ers uniform. Last year it was Matt Breida serving as the teams’ lead back at times, giving way to veteran Alfred Morris and youngster Raheem Mostert.
Before the start of the season, the 49ers signed free agent Tevin Coleman, who Kyle Shanahan had during his time with the Atlanta Falcons. Coleman and Bredia share the backfield throughout the game, at times giving way to Jeff Wilson at the goal-line. Raheem Mostert sees his fair share of touches usually late in the game. The 49ers have a stable of backs to deploy, using the fresh runner to continue to wear down the defense.
It’s a formula that the Detroit Lions should consider with Darrell Bevell moving forward. Imagine how much Matthew Stafford would benefit from a solid run game, in this system. Breida is averaging 5 yards per carry this season.
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San Francisco will want to keep Matt Breida around, but perhaps the Lions could land him for 4-million per season with the 49ers trying to keep their tremendous defense intact. He’d be Detroit’s lead back. Breida was clocked as the fastest runner on one occurrence last season, a faster top speed than Tyreek Hill. Imagine that explosiveness in the Lions backfield.