The Detroit Lions have done something they have never done – as in ever! They have made a splash in the free agency market, and it looks like they may not be done just yet. Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn said things were going to be different around here, and so far they are. The Lions are also linked to CJ Mosley and Trey Flowers.
The New Orleans Saints shocked many fans when they went out and signed Vikings free agent running back Latavius Murray. While nothing will be official until after 4 PM ET on Wednesday (March 13), current Saints running back Mark Ingram knows his time in New Orleans is over.
Mark Ingram on the radar?
According to Clutch Points, Ingram has suddenly become the most sought-after free agent running back on the market – and three teams seem very interested in obtaining his services. The report indicates that the Baltimore Ravens, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers are all in the mix to make a deal for the 29-year-old Ingram. The Lions also have interest in Flowers and Dwayne Allen.
Best free agency offseason ever?
The Lions have already acquired defensive back Justin Coleman, wideout Danny Amendola, and defensive end Trey Flowers. Not too shabby. But with questions at running back, should they go after the former Alabama Crimson Tide star? Absolutely. Ingram, no matter where he lands, will have a huge chip on his shoulder.
That’s going to be good for the team that signs him. He is 29, which means he most likely has a good three seasons left in those legs, but more importantly, he will bring experience to a team that needs it when it comes to running the football.
With Kerryon Johnson heading into his second season, adding Ingram would be a very nice one-two punch for Detroit.
Last year, Johnson got off to a great start in his rookie season as he rushed for nearly 700 yards in his first 10 games. Unfortunately, Johnson injured his knee against the Carolina Panthers in Week 11 and missed the rest of the season. Another reason adding Ingram makes sense.
Adding Ingram would take the bulk load off of Johnson, who will likely share the backfield with Zack Zenner and Theo Riddick.
Riddick has shown greatness at times and is very good on screenplays. The 27-year-old, former Notre Dame Fighting Irish star is definitely a keeper.
However, the Lions have to make a move either via the draft or free agency for a running back. Johnson has potential to be a long-term good player, but adding Ingram to the backfield would give the Lions arguably the best running back duo in the NFC North. It is going to be an interesting week, that is for sure!