The Detroit Lions surprised many by selecting Georgia running back D’Andre Swift with the 35th pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Swift was widely considered to be the top running back in the draft and mocked plenty of times in the first round, but fell to the Lions in the second.
Now in Detroit, Swift joins a crowded running back depth chart. Currently, the Lions are housing Kerryon Johnson, Ty Johnson, Bo Scarborough, Tra Carson, Wes Hills, and fullback Nick Bawden.
So what will Swift’s role be?
Swift is not, and has never been, a workhorse running back, meaning that the Lions will likely continue to take a committee approach with their running backs group with Kerryon Johnson and Swift splitting their carries evenly.
Despite his small frame, Swift runs with a lot of power and could complement Johnson nicely. He also is a strong receiver, and that skill set will help him earn some extra reps on offense. Swift may now be the strongest pass protector of the group as well. All of these skills could propel him to surpass Johnson later in the season, but they will likely share the starting role in Week 1.
The Lions generally carry four running backs and a fullback, so the remaining four players at the position will be fighting for two spots.
Ty Johnson will most likely get the nod as the Lions’ third-string running back, as he brings some more unique skills to the group. He is by far the fastest running back in the rotation and can also contribute as a return man on special teams. Scarborough, Carson, and Hills are all bigger-bodied running backs who can be an extra goal-line and short-yardage option in Detroit.
