NFL, Team News / Analysis, Player News / Analysis, Rumors, Kevin Smith, Jahvid Best, Detroit Lions, Chris Ivory
Former 1000-yard rusher Ryan Grant is still available in free agency, but apparently the Lions are hoping to acquire a better option via trade. Grant is coming off of a disappointing 559 yard season, and in 2010 he was limited to one game before suffering a season ending ankle injury. Despite the fact that Grant is still a solid straight-line runner, the Lions have their sights set on a bigger prize.
What this report also suggests is the Lions' concern with the frequent injuries of Kevin Smith. Although Smith is expected to be set to go by opening weekend, he missed practice with an ankle injury today and is often slowed by nagging injuries.Jahvid Best, who likely would have started for the Lions if healthy, has been place on the Physically Unable to Perform list with recurring concussion symptoms.
The Lions will also be without second year running back Mikel Leshoure, who is suspended for the first two games of the season. If Smith misses any regular season action, the Lions will be extremely thin at running back.
One trade partner that makes a lot of sense would be the Saints. They could send power runner Chris Ivory over to Detroit and still have a similar running back in Mark Ingram, along with scat back Darren Sproles and the more balanced Pierre Thomas. Getting a draft pick or two would be a good move for the Saints as well, as they surrendered multiple picks as punishment for the bounty scandal.
