Matt Asiata has a workout scheduled with the Lions, a source tells Tom Pelissero of USA Today (on Twitter). In fact, Asiata will participate in Detroit’s upcoming rookie minicamp, tweets Field Yates of ESPN.com. This marks Asiata’s first known audition since he became a free agent in March. 
[RELATED: Lions In On LeGarrette Blount]
Asiata, 30 in July, first broke into the NFL as a UDFA signing in Minnesota in 2011. After several years with the team, the Vikings decided to part ways with Asiata this spring and allow him to go elsewhere in free agency. As has been the case with other veteran running backs, his market has been very slow to develop.
The Lions already have four running backs under contract in Ameer Abdullah, Theo Riddick, Zach Zenner, and Dwayne Washington. However, they’re looking to add to the group, as evidenced by their interest in Asiata and LeGarrette Blount.
Asiata saw an increased workload in 2014 and 2016, seasons in which Adrian Peterson missed the majority of games. Last year, Asiata finished out with 402 yards off of 121 carries and six touchdowns. He also added 32 catches for 263 yards.
Would rather have Blount but it is a good plan B. He has the size and running style to fit. Surprisingly solid pass catcher as well.