Detroit Lions have quality group of running backs locked in for 2022

The Detroit Lions may not have the perfect roster or the best position groups in the league. But, looking ahead, they do have a good group of running backs to build their core around for the run-game.

According to OverTheCap’s website, the Detroit Lions will have Craig Reynolds, D’Andre Swift, and Jamaal Williams under contract for the 2022 season. While the 2021 season is not over yet, it’s nice to know these three players will be around again in 2022.

Yes, Reynolds is on that list. He’s the same player who was on the practice squad up until recently when he was signed to join the active 53-man roster, and that deal carries him through 2022 as well.

While Reynolds is not the RB1 or the best option, it’s nice to know that he will get his chances after being an excellent fill-in option for the Lions at the end of this 2021 season. In the absences of Swift and Williams, Reynolds has been great when called upon by the Lions.

The Detroit Lions have a good core of running backs for 2022.

Swift has missed time with his injury but was back on the field with a chance to play Sunday though he did not. As the team’s best option, he’ll be able to get back on the field and be healthy for the Lions’ offense for the 2022 season. After how good he looked, even when the Lions were still getting things worked out with the new regime, it’ll be great to have Swift back.

Williams has been a steady back for the Lions when called upon. Absences have been what has killed him in 2021, but when 2022 rolls around, he can look to be that team’s quality number two option whenever needed.

Unlike the other two, Reynolds has clawed his way to the field. After introducing himself to teammates in the huddle during a preseason game, he has continued getting to be sent out there and get chances to perform well.

These three running backs have combined for 1,209 rushing yards on the season, heading into the last two weeks of the season. Swift has 555 rushing yards and 429 receiving yards for 984 total on the season. He’s just short of that 1,000 total yards mark and could be able to get there if he is worked back into the game plan.

Williams has 536 rushing yards and 126 yards for 662 total yards on the season. The former Packers running back will be an excellent option for the team in 2022 when they are looking for those third and short runs.

The wildcard in the situation has been Reynolds. Over his three-game stint so far, he has picked up 224 yards rushing and 43 yards receiving for 267 total yards. All three of these backs should increase these numbers moving forward, but it’s great to see each playing a part.

While it’s not staggering numbers, Reynolds has been a phenomenal addition for the Lions’ offense and is a great depth addition looking ahead to 2022.