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2013 NFL Draft: Lions host Onterio McCalebb for visit

The Detroit Lions brought in Auburn running back Onterio McCalebb for a pre-draft visit on Monday.

Kevin C. Cox

The Detroit Lions continued their pre-2013 NFL Draft visits on Monday by hosting Auburn running back Onterio McCalebb. He is the fourth player known to have visited the Lions in advance of this year's draft, and he is the first non-wide receiver.

Of course, just because his official position isn't wide receiver doesn't mean he is strictly a running back. McCalebb has the ability to play multiple positions, and he could line up in the backfield and in the slot. He could also help on special teams, and McCalebb told the Free Press' Dave Birkett that the Lions view him as a Dexter McCluster type of player.

"Basically like a Dexter McCluster, third-down back, slot receiver, special teams," McCalebb said, "Basically a guy that can help the team win."

McCalebb, who ran a 4.34 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, spent four years at Auburn. He averaged 646.5 yards rushing per season, and he racked up a total of 27 touchdowns on offense during his time with the Tigers. He also scored 2 touchdowns as a kick returner at Auburn.

While the Lions may be set at running back following the Reggie Bush signing, McCalebb is the type of player you can use in a variety of ways. He could back up Bush, yes, but he also has the ability to contribute as a receiver and returner. The Lions are far from set when it comes to those two spots on the depth chart, so look for McCalebb to be a potential pick on the third day of the draft.