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The Detroit Lions are bringing back Zach Zenner for another year. The team announced on Tuesday afternoon that they have agreed to terms with the hella buff running back on a one-year deal.
The #Lions have agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension with RB Zach Zenner. pic.twitter.com/ADKUpkpZXh
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) March 12, 2019
Zenner had reportedly drawn some interest from the Minnesota Vikings, which could have made a good home for Zenner, seeing as he grew up in Eagan, Minnesota. Ultimately, Zenner chose to return to Detroit.
Zenner has been a favorite of Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia. They clearly favored him over Ameer Abdullah, choosing to bring Zenner back from injured reserve last season, while letting Abdullah hit waivers. Zenner rewarded the team’s patience by rushing for 237 yards and 4.65 yards per carry in the final four games of the season.
While the Lions are likely still looking for competition for the backup job behind starter Kerryon Johnson, the Lions’ commitment to Zenner may be a sign that they’re willing to give him a serious look as the team’s RB2. At this point, there are no indications that the Lions have interest in bringing back last year’s No. 2 back, LeGarrette Blount, who is set to become a free agent at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday.