The Detroit Lions decided to double-dip at the running back position by selecting Jason Huntley in the fifth round.
Coming out of New Mexico State, most analysts had Huntley low on their draft boards, predicting he’d not go until the seventh round or undrafted as a priority free agent.
Instead, the Lions snagged him in the fifth round, a pick that surprised many.
When you watch the tape, it’s obvious that he’s an elite athlete who could be a speedy option at running back for Detroit.
He’s shown promise on offense as both a zone runner and as a receiver, with over 1,000 yards both on the ground and in the air last season. He also scored five touchdowns on kick returns during his college career, so his special teams contributions could be his ticket to securing his roster spot.
His selection could simultaneously free up two roster spots, as his positional versatility and ability to be a gadget piece on offense could make Ty Johnson and Jamal Agnew dispensable.
While I love the player, I’m not a fan of the choice to take another running back in this year’s draft instead of addressing a different position of need.
