In 2015, the Detroit Lions were in desperate need of a solid running back to complement their passing game. With the departure of Reggie Bush, and the uncertainty surrounding Joique Bell's health, the team had to rely on a group of unproven players to carry the load. This article will take a look at the Detroit Lions RB depth chart for the 2015 season, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each player.
The Starting RB: Ameer Abdullah
The Lions used their second-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft to select Ameer Abdullah out of the University of Nebraska. Abdullah was expected to be the team's starting running back, and he did not disappoint. In his rookie season, he rushed for 597 yards and two touchdowns, while also catching 25 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown. Abdullah's speed and elusiveness make him a threat to break big plays every time he touches the ball.
While Abdullah's talent was apparent, he did struggle with fumbling issues throughout the season. He lost five fumbles in 2015, which led to him being benched for a few games. If Abdullah can improve his ball security, he has the potential to be one of the top running backs in the league.
The Backup RB: Theo Riddick
Theo Riddick was primarily used as a pass-catching back in 2015, as he caught 80 passes for 697 yards and three touchdowns. However, he also proved to be a reliable runner when called upon, rushing for 133 yards and three touchdowns on just 43 carries.
Riddick's versatility makes him a valuable asset to the Lions' offense. He can line up in the backfield or in the slot, and his ability to catch passes out of the backfield allows the Lions to create mismatches with linebackers and safeties. While Riddick may never be a true feature back, he is an important piece of the Lions' offensive puzzle.
The Third RB: Joique Bell
Joique Bell was the Lions' starting running back for much of the 2014 season, rushing for 860 yards and seven touchdowns. However, injuries and a decline in production led to him losing his starting job in 2015. Bell finished the season with just 311 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 90 carries.
Despite his struggles in 2015, Bell still has the potential to be a valuable contributor to the Lions' offense. He is a powerful runner who can pick up tough yards between the tackles, and his pass-catching ability makes him a threat out of the backfield. However, Bell will need to stay healthy and re-discover his form from 2014 in order to earn a significant role in the Lions' offense.
The Fourth RB: Stevan Ridley
Stevan Ridley was signed by the Lions midway through the 2015 season after being released by the New York Jets. He saw limited action in Detroit, rushing for just 90 yards on 36 carries. Ridley is a powerful runner who has had success in the past, rushing for over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns with the New England Patriots in 2012.
While Ridley may not have a significant role in the Lions' offense in 2016, he provides valuable depth at the running back position. If Abdullah or Riddick were to suffer an injury, Ridley could step in and provide a physical presence in the backfield.
The Fifth RB: Zach Zenner
Zach Zenner was an undrafted free agent out of South Dakota State who impressed the Lions' coaching staff during training camp. He saw limited action during the regular season, rushing for just 60 yards on 17 carries.
While Zenner may not have a significant role in the Lions' offense in 2016, he showed enough potential in 2015 to earn a spot on the roster. He is a hard-working runner who can pick up tough yards between the tackles, and his ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a valuable asset in the passing game.
Overall, the Detroit Lions RB depth chart for the 2015 season was a mixed bag. While Abdullah showed promise as a potential star, the rest of the group was largely unproven and inconsistent. If the Lions want to improve their running game in 2016, they will need Abdullah to continue to develop and for the rest of the group to step up and contribute.
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