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As we start to look ahead to training camp, we're going to take a position-by-position look at the Detroit Lions roster. Next up is the running back position.
Back from last season: Mikel Leshoure, Joique Bell, Shaun Chapas
New to the team: Reggie Bush, Theo Riddick, Montell Owens, Steven Miller
One of the Lions' biggest offseason moves this year was the addition of running back Reggie Bush. After not having Jahvid Best available during the 2012 season because of concussion issues, the Lions made it a point to sign Bush. The Lions view him as their starter at running back going into the 2013 season, and they envision him being used in a variety of ways to keep opposing defenses off balance.
The addition of Bush really solidified running back as a position with an abundance of talent for the Lions. They also have Mikel Leshoure and Joique Bell, who both excelled during the 2012 season. Leshoure had issues with being too inconsistent at times, but he showed a lot of promise in what was only his first season back after tearing his Achilles. And Bell came on really strong as the Lions' "closer" at running back. Both players should continue to play a role in the Lions' offense in 2013.
The exact roles for the other running backs currently on the team aren't quite as clear. Draft pick Theo Riddick could potentially be a backup for Bush and a contributor on special teams, and undrafted free agent Steven Miller could make the 53-man roster if he becomes the team's returner. And speaking of special teams, the Lions recently added Montell Owens, who can play both running back and fullback, to bolster their coverage units. Fullback Shaun Chapas is also back, but he is facing an uphill battle to make the 53-man roster.
Need going forward?
The Lions appear to be more than set at running back. They have a solid running back by committee with Bush, Leshoure and Bell, and they have potential special teamers who could also occasionally contribute on offense in Riddick, Owens and Miller. There are going to be some tough decisions at this position about who should make the team, so there's really no need to bring in anybody else at this point.
Previously: Quarterback