Going into Week 7, the Detroit Lions were linked to a number of experienced running backs. The Lions then did little to quell the rumours about the Baltimore Ravens.
In fact, after Week 7, the Lions may have an even greater need in the offensive backfield.As a result, the Lions were inspired to pursue veteran Leonard Fournette in free agency this week once more.
“While they do have rookie Jahmyr Gibbs to turn to, the Lions will be missing a true power back without Montgomery, and Fournette could fill in as the offense’s bruiser in the red zone with his 34 career rushing touchdowns,” the Bleacher Report NFL staff wrote.
“Also, Mohamed Ibrahim underwent immediate surgery after suffering a hip injury during yesterday’s game.”
The Lions signed Ibrahim to the practice squad to help the team overcome the loss of Montgomery. But Ibrahim needed surgery after dislocating a hip on October 22.
In addition to Ibrahim, the Lions are without starter David Montgomery and depth running back Zonovan Knight. Fortunately, rookie Jahmyr Gibbs returned from injury in Week 7.
At 28 years old, Fournette, who signed a three-year, $21 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ahead of the 2022 season, would bring plenty of experience to Detroit.
USA Today’s Lions Wire’s Max Gerber essentially suggested Fournette as a last resort target for Detroit to replace Montgomery, who left Week 6 because of a rib injury.
Gerber argued that Fournette “might be” Detroit’s “best bet” if Montgomery had to go on injured reserve because of his rib.
