Similar to the Denver Broncos, the Detroit Lions have a crowded backfield with Reggie Bush, Joique Bell and Theo Riddick. But given Bush's age - he'll turn 30 next month - and injury history, the Lions may be considering a parting of the ways.
Bush has missed seven games over the last two seasons and didn't even crack 4.0 yards per carry, 100 rushing attempts or 300 passing yards last year. For a back who makes his living generating explosive plays and catching passes, that type of production simply isn't going to cut it. The Lions could save $4 million in salary cap money if they cut Bush, and may possibly be interested in a free agent as a replacement.
"If free-agent-to-be Justin Forsett is available at an affordable price, he could be a good match for the Lions to replace Bush," ESPN's Tom Carpenter wrote.
Forsett seems open to the idea of moving on from the Baltimore Ravens this offseason.
"I'm not opposed to anywhere," Forsett said earlier this month. "Like I said, I'm looking for commitment and if they can bring it, that could be a possibility."
Forsett is coming off the best season of his career in which he finished fifth in the NFL in rushing yards with 1,266 while scoring eight touchdowns on the ground and catching 44 passes. Not bad for a guy playing on the veteran's minimum.
Another possibility is giving more playing time to Riddick, whose skillset overlaps with Bush's.
"Riddick is almost equal parts wide receiver and running back," ESPN NFL Insider Matt Williamson wrote. "He is exceptional in the passing game and can serve as the Lions' third receiver at times. Riddick also has great burst and overall explosive skills. He might make Reggie Bush expendable."
The Lions may have finished 11-5 and made it to the playoffs, but the team ranked just 28th in rushing yards per game with a miserable 88.9. The offense struggled mightily without a consistent ground game while star wideout Calvin Johnson missed time due to injury. Detroit should focus on improving the offensive line this offseason which will open up more running lanes and balance out the team's offensive attack.
