Add another name to the list of Lions running back targets. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports (via Twitter) that free agent LeGarrette Blount is set to meet with Detroit. Earlier tonight, there were conflicting reports that the organization was closing in on a deal with free agent back Frank Gore. The organization also met with DeMarco Murray and Jonathan Stewart (before he inked a deal with the Giants).
Following three straight seasons with the Patriots, Blount joined the Eagles last offseason. The 31-year-0ld proceeded to play in all 16 games (11 starts) last season, collecting 766 rushing yards and two scores on 173 carries (4.4 yards per carry). Blount was plenty productive in the postseason, collecting three touchdowns en route to a Super Bowl championship.
Pro Football Focus wasn’t overly enthused with Blount’s performance in 2017, ranking him 41st among 58 eligible running backs. However, the veteran’s track record still earned him the 11th spot in our free agent running back rankings.
The 250-pound Blount would certainly provide the Lions with a change-of-pace running back. The team is already rostering Ameer Abdullah, Theo Riddick, Tion Green, and Dwayne Washington.
I’d love him to be on the team
It seems Detroit is checking in on everyone, but come on Philly. This guy is a brusier. Nobody wants to tackle him and he really helped the Egles run game which then helped the pass game even more. Please bring him back to Philly.
Blount makes more sense than Gore. They need someone who can grind out the short yardage situations and excel in the redzone. He’d be a better option for that than Gore and would probably be a more ideal compliment to Abdullah and Riddick if the plan is to split snaps.
Doesn’t matter what the lions do. They are not close to seriously competing legitimately in a playoff game.
Stupidest comment on here, congrats.
sportsfan I’m sure is a Bears fan
I hope they go with Gore and not Blount! Blounts hummys are an issue and it all boils down to lack of conditioning! I’ve heard he hardly partakes in pregame stretching and that he’s an all around downer to be around in the locker room. They’ll go with Gore if they know what’s right for them.
Never heard any complaints about his hummys personally…
*Hammys
I’ve really only followed him over the last year in Philly, but not a single part of that comment is accurate.
A Blount / Riddick backfield with Abdullah in smaller doses would be good for DET.
Abdullah should be gone if we sign any other RB. Keep Theo and Green Abdullah had his chance. Had the keys to the entire backfield and he fumbled them away. Trade him even on draft day
I think Zack Zenner is still on their roster too, in addition to those other running backs.