Where the Lions roster stands: Fullback

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 fullback position. (The final year of each player's contract is listed in parentheses.)

Back from last season: Emil Igwenagu (2016)

New to the team: Michael Burton (2018)

The fullback position is pretty straightforward right now for the Lions. The favorite to win the starting job is rookie Michael Burton, who was drafted by the Lions in the fifth round this year. Prior to the Burton selection, Emil Igwenagu was the favorite for the starting job by default after he spent last season on the practice squad. With the Lions not re-signing Jed Collins, it was Igwenagu's job to lose, but now it would be quite surprising if Burton isn't the starting fullback.

Need going forward?

Collins ended up signing with the Dallas Cowboys after the Lions went in a different direction, but he has since been released. As a result, if there are any injuries at fullback or if the Lions simply decide they need a veteran presence, Collins is available. Outside of him, it's tough to imagine the Lions adding anybody else at fullback, and even then, the best plan of attack right now is really to just give Burton as many reps as possible to prepare him for the starting role.

Previously: Quarterback, running back