Wednesday open thread: Should the Lions sign Joique Bell?

The Detroit Lions hosted Joique Bell—along with four linebackers—for a visit on Tuesday. With the status of Ameer Abdullah still unknown, it’s quite possible that the Lions will add Bell to the roster to fill out their running back depth chart. Bell would bring familiarity and a history of mild success to the team, but Detroit already has Zach Zenner, who has been a healthy scratch in each of the Lions’ first two weeks.

So today’s Question of the Day is:

Should the Detroit Lions sign Joique Bell?

My answer: Yes. Obviously, a lot depends on how long Abdullah will be out, but I really wouldn’t mind the Lions signing Bell regardless. Sure Dwayne Washington has shown a lot of promised both as a special teamer and a runner, but the rookie can’t be counted on to carry a huge bulk of the carries yet.

I’ve argued in the past about how Bell’s shortcoming were overblown last year, and although Bell has spent the offseason teamless, I believe he can come in immediately and carry the ball 10-15 times a game, if needed.

The biggest issue is, to me, is whether the Lions should devote another roster spot to a running back. The Lions are hurting all over the roster, especially on defense, so it may be wise for the Lions to just rely on what they currently have behind Abdullah and save the reinforcements for linebacker and defensive end. Still, with Detroit’s running game actually working for the first time in a few years, I think Bell would be a solid addition.

Your turn.