The Detroit Lions have decided to part ways with running back Mikel Leshoure after not panning out as expected since being drafted in the second round of the 2011 draft.
The Detroit Lions released Mikel Leshoure in a move to clear out the crowded backfield that consists of Reggie Bush and Joique Bell. Leshoure was battling for the No. 3 running back job, but that will ultimately go to Theo Riddick.
Leshoure was drafted in the second round of the 2011 draft, and he never panned out as expected. His career got off to an unfortunate start when he tore his Achilles and missed the entire 2011 season.
In 2012, Leshoure became the starting running back and performed underwhelmingly with 798 yards and nine touchdowns. This caused the Lions to sign Bush to be their starter, and Bell started receiving significant carries as well.
Leshoure only received two carries in 2013, and Riddick took on a relatively significant role in his rookie season and has enough upside for the Lions to keep using him in their offense.
The former Illinois running back broke out in his junior season in college with 1,697 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, and he chose to skip his senior season for the draft. His release makes defensive tackle Nick Fairley the only 2011 draft pick remaining on the Lions’ roster.
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