The Detroit Lions have an issue at running back. Actually, the Detroit Lions have several issues at running back. Not particularly this season, but next season is where some big decisions will have to be made.
The first question the Lions have to answer is, “Can D’Andre Swift be THE guy?”.
Detroit Lions RB D’Andre Swift
We have all seen the flashes. Swift has all the physical tools to be an élite NFL running back. But injuries have held him back from fulfilling that potential. I have also often questioned if the problem is between Swift’s ears?
That questioning started during this season of Hard Knocks on HBO. There was a scene where RB Coach Duce Staley was hyping up Swift. Telling him “He can be the greatest!” Swift’s response was poor posture and an almost nonchalant attitude.
This is only my opinion, but I wanted to see D’Andre get more hyped up for that type of compliment. More engaged. Sit up, like you actually believe what the coach is saying!
Some guys nature is to be calm. Hell, Barry Sanders probably wasn’t the most hype guy in the film room. I understand that is not necessary what is holding him back. It’s just something I would have loved to see. “That DWAG”.
But, if Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes still think he’s the guy it solves some of the decisions this off season.
Jamaal Williams
The very next question the Detroit Lions should be asking themselves is, “DO we re-sign Jamaal Williams?”
This has been a banner year Williams. Leading the NFL in touchdowns and having more TD’s this year than his entire stint in Green Bay.
So far this season Williams has 177 attempts for 734 yards and 13 TD’s. Averaging 4.1 yard per carry. Really the only negative on him all season is 2 untimely fumbles.
He is a critical part of the Detroit’s offense. I think the Lions would be fools to let him go.
NFL Free Agent options
The Free Agent list coming up for this next NFL offseason is pretty damn good.
Josh Jacobs, Saquon Barkley, Miles Sanders, Tony Pollard, David Montgomery and Kareem Hunt are the top 6 Free Agents available.
Imagine an offense with Jacobs or Barkley?! Obviously that would come with a hefty price tag.
The Lions will have about $24 Million in cap space next year. That means they would have to use about half of that on any top tier guy.
I love Josh Jacobs, especially after he has turned it around this year. He just went over 1000 yards for the 3rd time in 4 years. The Las Vegas Raiders did not pick up his 5th year rookie option. Jacobs has made them look foolish for not doing so.
So far this season Jacobs has 216 carries for 1,159 yards and 9 touchdowns. He also has 40 receptions for 325 yards. That would look pretty nice in the the Honolulu Blue backfield.
