With Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery leading the charge on the ground, the Detroit Lions have one of the most feared rushing attacks in the entire NFL.
Despite those two being responsible for the lion's share of the carries made by the Lions this past season, Detroit continues to add depth to the backfield by providing the coaching staff with another weapon to consider during training camp. On Friday, Brad Holmes added a second-year running back who starred for the University of Tennessee before suiting up for the Tennessee Titans this past season as a rookie.
Lions Sign RB Jabari Small After Kicking UDFA to Curb on Thursday
Detroit waived a hometown hero on Thursday when they sent Anthony Tyus III packing after the Michigan native was diagnosed with a non-football illness. His release opened up a spot for another running back, the Lions moved quickly to sign Jabari Small so that they could get him into training camp.
Source: The #Lions are adding depth to their backfield, signing RB Jabari Small. The former Vols’ star was with the #Titans last season as a rookie. pic.twitter.com/0fibPp5lIO
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) July 18, 2025
Small did not see the field for the Titans this past season, but as he proved during his time in the SEC, he can certainly make things happen when the ball is in his hands. In 45 appearances for the Volunteers, Small racked up 2,369 total yards on 451 touches and 26 touchdowns.
Again, the likelihood that Small makes the 53-man roster coming out of camp remains slim. With all four members of the Lions' running back room returning for the 2025 campaign, it wouldn't be shocking to see Dan Campbell and company run this back with that same group.
Regardless of how things ultimately work out in Detroit for Small, he now has the opportunity to prove his worth to the organization, and he would be wise to make the most of it. One thing is for certain: Small will be chomping at the bit to get going.