One RB Lions Could Select in Every Round of NFL Draft

Evaluating running backs in every round of upcoming NFL Draft.

The Detroit Lions struck gold by selecting Jahmyr Gibbs 12th overall in 2023. 

Selecting Gibbs came with plenty of backlash at the time, but it turned out to be exactly what the Lions needed. Gibbs, combined with David Montgomery, gave the Lions an elite backfield pairing. 

Could the Lions add to it in this year’s Draft? The third running back spot is currently held by Craig Reynolds, who saw significant action at points as both Gibbs and Montgomery missed games due to injury. 

With the need for depth in mind, Holmes and company could take a chance on another running back this season in an effort to continue adding firepower to the offense. 

Here is one running back the Lions could target in each round of the NFL Draft. 

Round 1

Trey Benson, Florida State

Benson is considered the top prospect at the position, but even he might last into Day Two. There again, the Lions surprised many by selecting Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round when he was expected by many to last until the second day. 

If the Lions do target a first round back, it will likely be Benson. The Florida State back is the most well-rounded of the group, as he offers power along with elusiveness. He also has little wear and tear, as he carried the ball 20 times in just one game last seasons and has two years of being a feature back. 

Dec 2, 2023; Charlotte, NC, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Trey Benson (3).

Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Round 2

Jonathon Brooks, Texas

After spending time as the backup to Bijan Robinson, Brooks will have plenty to give at the NFL level. He had just 238 carries in three seasons, averaging over six yards a carry in his career. 

Brooks has plenty of wiggle, as shown by his 63 forced missed tackles last year. He also had a strong 3.91 average of yards after contact. With pass catching ability in tow as well, Brooks is a versatile player who could be a solid compliment to Detroit’s already sturdy stable of backs.

Texas Longhorns running back Jonathon Brooks (24) celebrates after he runs into the end zone for a touchdown.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman

Round 3

Blake Corum, Michigan 

One of the most interesting prospects at this position is Michigan’s Corum, who has a winning pedigree. He suffered a knee injury in 2022 that was a factor in his decision to return to Michigan, which ended with a national championship. 

Whereas other players on this list have limited mileage on their tires, Corum has 675 carries in four seasons with the Wolverines. With a knee injury as well, there could be durability concerns. 

However, Corum is also a proven winner who has held a leadership role with the Wolverines. He has back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and also showcased some receiving ability at his Pro Day. He’s electric in the open field, and he has the ceiling of a legitimate difference maker for an NFL offense. 

Michigan running back Blake Corum speaks during the national championship celebration at Crisler Center.

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

Round 4

The Lions do not currently own a fourth-round selection

Round 5

MarShawn Lloyd, USC

After beginning his career with three seasons at South Carolina, Lloyd took his talents to California for his final collegiate campaign. He fit nicely in the Trojans’ high-powered offense, rushing for 820 yards and nine touchdowns. 

Lloyd has limited receiving production, so he projects more as a bruising runner at the next level. He averaged just under four yards after contact and had 18 runs of 15 yards or more. 

If the Lions are searching for a late-round power compliment to Montgomery and Gibbs, Lloyd could be a natural fit. 

Nov 18, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans running back MarShawn Lloyd (0) runs against UCLA.

Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports

Round 6

Dylan Laube, New Hampshire

Laube is a very interesting small-school candidate to be drafted, and rightfully so. He did it all at New Hampshire, providing contributions in both the run and passing game. 

The running back announced his presence in a Week 2 matchup against FBS opponent Central Michigan, when he scored three touchdowns and had 295 receiving yards on 12 catches. 

While not as shifty as other running backs in the class, he’s a Swiss-Army Knife in terms of production and does many things well. If he can develop, he could be a strong tertirary option for the Lions’ offense.  

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New Hampshire running back Dylan Laube (RB17) during the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Round 7

Cody Schrader, Missouri

Schrader was one of the best running backs in all of college football last year, finishing an illustrious career that started at the Division II level. 

Before going to Mizzou in 2022, he spent four years at Truman State. There, he set a number of program records and finished with 3,069 rushing yards. He then walked on at Missouri, where his career took off last season. 

He had an excellent collegiate career but questions about his size and durability may hurt his stock. Schrader looks the part of a contributor on special teams early in his career with the potential to develop into a rotational player. 

Jan 30, 2024; Mobile, AL, USA; American Team running back Cody Schrader of Missouri (28) runs the ball.

Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports