2015 Detroit Lions roster review: Fullbacks

As part of our season wrap-up series, we are going to examine how each player on the roster performed in 2015. Next, let's take a look at the Detroit Lions' fullback.

Michael Burton

2015 stats: 16 games (7 starts) | 4 carries, 2 yards (0.5 YPC) | 6 catches, 39 yards, 1 TD
2016 status: Signed through 2018

Burton was the only Lions fullback on the roster all season, after beating out Emil Igwenagu in training camp. Despite being a rookie and a fifth-round draft pick, Burton's transition to the NFL was seamless. While Burton didn't get his hands on the ball very often, he was solid as a run blocker, earning positive ratings from Pro Football Focus more often than not. Despite his impressive play, the Lions running game could not get going for most of 2015.

Outlook for 2016

Not much will change with the fullback position next season, unless the Lions decide to get rid of the fullback position in an attempt to change up the running game. But with Jim Caldwell and Jim Bob Cooter coming back for another season, there is no reason to expect the fullback position to enter endangered species territory in Detroit. The Lions may bring back Igwenagu for Fullback Training Camp Battle 2.0, but it's highly unlikely he'll unseat the younger, more talented Burton.

Previously: Quarterbacks, running backs