The Detroit Lions have reached an agreement with yet another running back previously with the Los Angles Rams, but this time it’s going to stick. ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting that the Lions are signing C.J. Anderson to a 1-year deal.
It was clear the Lions were searching for a veteran running back to pair with starter Kerryon Johnson and at this point in the free agency period with the market hitting a lull, this is the type of signing that makes you sit up and take notice.
Anderson entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2013, joining the Denver Broncos. In his four years with them, he earned a starting role in 2014, making the Pro Bowl the same year, and in 2015 was part of their Super Bowl Championship.
He left the Broncos in the 2018 offseason, joining the Carolina Panthers but fell out of favor with the staff halfway through the season and was released. Next, he joined the Raiders for a cup of coffee but never saw any game action. Finally, he landed with the Rams and was an intricate part of their Playoff run.
Anderson proved during five games with the Rams — rushing for 488-yards and four touchdowns — that he is capable of being a complementary option out of the backfield, while also someone who can take starting snaps when necessary.
With LeGarrette Blount no longer in the mix, the Lions needed a back who is trustworthy and capable of shouldering some of the workload and Anderson fits that bill in spades. Still only 28 years-old, Anderson can fill the power back role the Lions have been looking for.
Anderson should be penciled in as Johnson’s direct backup at the moment but he will receive competition from recently re-signed Zach Zenner and longtime passing game weapon Theo Riddick.
Despite having four capable running backs on the roster the Lions love competition and could still add another back on Day 3 of the NFL draft. For a list of those who could be potential targets, be sure to check out the 2019 NFL Draft QIB (Quinn Influenced Benchmarks) qualifiers for options.
