JAMAAL WILLIAMS

This is the third of an eight-part series previewing the Detroit Lions’ positional needs and priorities heading into the NFL draft, which is scheduled for April 28-30 in Las Vegas. Today: Running backs. The running game was especially good after Campbell took over the playcalling in the second half of the season, averaging 126.8 yards per game, up from just 93.1 yards per game under Anthony Lynn. In case you’re wondering: The Rams also selected running backs in Rounds 2, 3 (twice), 5 and 6 (twice) during Holmes’ years as college scouting director. With zero drops last season, Spiller also has terrific hands, which would make him an ideal fit for the Ben Johnson offense.

D’Andre Swift led the way once again, racking up a team-high 1,069 yards from scrimmage despite missing a month due to injury. No Lions running back had accounted for 1,000 yards since Reggie Bush in 2014. Throw in the return of punishing fullback Jason Cabinda, and there is so much to like about the outlook of this running game. With all that said, the Lions don’t have to press for a running back in the NFL draft. So there are some questions about his fit at the next level, and he’d help his stock with a good week in the speed drills in Indianapolis.

Previous entries: QuarterbacksRUNNING BACKSStarters: D’Andre Swift, Jamaal Williams, FB Jason CabindaBackups: Craig Reynolds, Godwin Igwebuike, Jermar JeffersonKey stats: The Lions averaged 4.4 yards per rushing attempt. Detroit hadn’t averaged that many yards per attempt since finishing ninth in 2004 when then-rookie Kevin Jones ran for 1,133 yards. Williams ran for a career-high 601 yards while starting 11 games. He returned for the final two games, running 11 times for 62 yards and one touchdown while catching six balls for only 23 yards. Reynolds ran for 83 yards in his debut, then went off for 112 yards while carrying the ball 26 times.

D’Andre Swift was back in the lineup for the first time since Thanksgiving, and while leading the Detroit Lions running backs in snaps, he didn’t see many touches. Swift ran four times for 32 yards, catching two of three targets for only 7 yards in his return. Williams had the most touches out of the backfield, running 11 times for 22 yards and one touchdown, catching all three targets for 22 yards. -- Amon-Ra St. Brown led the depleted receiver room as expected, with KhaDarel Hodge and Trinity Benson next in line. St. Brown had himself another big day, catching eight balls for a career-high 111 yards and one touchdown, adding a 26-yard score on the ground.

Rashaad Penny rushed for a career-high 170 yards and two touchdowns, Russell Wilson threw three of his four TD passes to DK Metcalf, and the Seattle Seahawks routed the Detroit Lions 51-29.

Detroit Lions running back Jamaal Williams was back in the lineup for the first time in two weeks, joining the red-hot Craig Reynolds in the backfield. The Lions lost 20-16 to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16, with two games left on the schedule. Reynolds wasn’t far behind, though, seeing 27 plays, maintaining his role after an impressive first two games of action. Williams ran 19 times for a season-high 77 yards, with a long of 14 yards, averaging 4.1 yards per attempt. He added 21 of his 29 yards after contact, catching three of four targets for 22 yards, with a long catch of 14 yards.

The club announced on Sunday morning that running back Craig Reynolds will dress for a third straight game on Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons. With D’Andre Swift battling a shoulder injury, the Lions elevated Reynolds from their practice squad to help them get through games against Denver and Arizona. Reynolds will play over rookie seventh-round pick Jermar Jefferson, who is not dressing against the Falcons. D’Andre Swift also won’t dress for the game due to a shoulder injury he suffered on Thanksgiving against Chicago. He’s missing his fourth straight game with the injury, but did practice last week, which suggests he could still return this season.

The Detroit Lions are headed south after the holidays, drawing the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16 action set for the day after Christmas. He’s run 37 times for 195 yards in two games off the practice squad, getting signed to the main roster this past week. Godwin Igwebuike has had the fumble struggles in recent weeks, while Jermar Jefferson hasn’t played double-digit snaps since Week 8. “Last couple weeks, he’s been unbelievable,” Taylor Decker said after last week’s win. Jalen Reeves-Maybin made his return to the lineup after a two-game absence last week, playing a season-high 72 defensive snaps.

The Detroit Lions put cornerbacks Ifeatu Melifonwu and Mark Gilbert along with linebacker Tavante Beckett on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions added cornerbacks Mark Gilbert and Ifeatu Melifonwu to the COVID reserve list, bringing the total to six cases on the week. Gilbert and Melifonwu join center Evan Brown, safety Tracy Walker, running back Jamaal Williams and cornerback Bobby Price on the COVID list. They have cornerbacks Corey Ballentine, Parnell Motley and Nickell Robey-Coleman on the practice squad, with a handful of moves expected Saturday afternoon. Walker landing on the COVID list could lead to even more shuffling by necessity in the defensive backfield. It’s also looking bare in the offensive backfield, with Swift and Williams down, not to mention in the defensive trenches.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have placed running back Jamaal Williams and safety Tracy Walker on the COVID reserve list. They also officially ruled out running back D’Andre Swift (shoulder) and listed tight end T.J. Hockenson (hand) as doubtful. Williams handled the bulk of the work with Swift missing the team’s game last week, running 17 times for 71 yards in the win. “It’s, we kind have talked about this, it’s the versatility,” Lions tight end coach Ben Johnson said of Cabinda. For a big tight end, er fullback, you just don’t see much of that.

DETROIT -- Lions linebacker Josh Woods has been a special teams staple since landing in Detroit but had drawn only four defensive snaps leading into week 13. Reeves-Maybin and rookie Derrick Barnes had split most of the work behind Alex Anzalone to this point, so it was interesting to see Woods jump ahead of the fourth-round rookie. Pro Football Focus docked Woods for his work against the pass while ranking him 12th among linebackers on the ground. -- Alim McNeill was right there with his fellow rookie on the defensive line, drawing a career-high 43 snaps. -- Amon-Ra St. Brown and Josh Reynolds dominated the snaps out wide, both seeing more than 60 snaps in the win.

The Detroit Lions are down to six more chances to win a game in coach Dan Campbell’s debut season.

ALLEN PARK -- Prized rookie offensive tackle Penei Sewell was spotted back at Detroit Lions practice after missing Wednesday’s session with an illness. Wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge was also back on the practice field after missing yesterday with an illness too. Running back D’Andre Swift (shoulder), edge defender Trey Flowers (knee), linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin (shoulder) and cornerback Bobby Price (shoulder) were not spotted. “I like the depth of our backfield,” Lions offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn said. Flowers has been out since the team’s tie in Pittsburgh, missing four games this season due to multiple injuries.

The winless Detroit Lions may be without their best player against the Minnesota Vikings.

DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions relied heavily on Jerry Jacobs, Amani Oruwariye, Tracy Walker and Dean Marlowe on Thanksgiving, with each playing every defensive rep in the secondary. Parker missed the team’s 16-14 loss to the Chicago Bears, with Will Harris seeing more looks from the slot. Harris has played there at times throughout the season but logged 63 defensive snaps against the Bears, with Marlowe taking over at safety. Reynolds showed flashes this time around, leading the team with three catches for 70 yards and one touchdown. Raymond also made his way back into the box score, catching three of four targets for 16 yards.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions (0-9-1) and Chicago Bears (3-7) feature two of the most toothless offenses around heading into Thanksgiving. Swift ran 33 times for 130 yards, making him the first Lions running back to notch consecutive 100-yard games in 17 years. The third-year tight end is worth an unquestioned start, no matter if it’s Jared Goff or Tim Boyle starting on Thanksgiving. If Allen Robinson is active for Thanksgiving, start him too. Sleepers to watch in daily/deeper season-long leagues:Lions WR Josh Reynolds: He’s worth a look in daily lineups, without question.

ALLEN PARK -- The number of press conferences changes from day to day, depending on the time of year, how good the team is, whether there’s a pandemic and so on. Total it all up, and that’s roughly 400 press conferences during the regular season. That means since I began covering the Detroit Lions in 2013, I’ve covered more than 3,200 press conferences. And in all those thousands and thousands of press conferences, I’ve never seen anyone wear a helmet. I’m so happy I keep my helmet on, even for press conferences, you know?

FinneyLT Taylor Decker will make season debut for Detroit Lions; WR Josh Reynolds out--The Detroit Lions (0-8) have an opportunity to start the second half of their season on a bright note against the Pittsburgh Steelers (5-3) in Week 10. Hit the refresh button to keep up and make sure to follow MLive’s Detroit Lions reporters on Twitter -- @BenjaminSRaven and @kmeinke. Detroit has lost five straight in this series, not beating the Steelers since the infamous coin toss overtime game on Thanksgiving in 1998. They’ve tied once and lost the other nine games on the road against the Steelers since that last victory. How to watch Detroit Lions at Pittsburgh Steelers: Everything you need to know heading into Week 10Steelers rule out QB Ben Roethlisberger against Lions due to COVIDDetroit Lions vs. Pittsburgh Steelers betting odds for 11/14/21 game: Lions an underdog on the roadDetroit Lions at Pittsburgh Steelers: Matchups to watch, key questions heading into Week 102021 Team stats:DVOA offensive ranking: Lions 30th | Steelers 18thDVOA defensive ranking: Lions 29th | Steelers 13thNet yards gained per passing attempt: Lions 5.5 (29th) | Steelers 5.9 (26th)Rushing yards per attempt: Lions 4.1 (20th) | Steelers 3.6 (29th)Points per game: Lions 16.8 (29th) | Steelers 20.1 (23rd)Points allowed per game: Lions 30.5 (31st) | Steelers 21.1 (8th)Net yards allowed per passing attempt: Lions 8.3 (32nd) | Steelers 6.7 (20th)Rushing yards allowed per attempt: Lions 4.3 (16th) | Steelers 4.4 (20th)Takeaways: Lions 7 | Steelers 8

Jamaal Williams and Austin Seibert, not so much. The Detroit Lions have ruled out Williams, their leading rusher, and Seibert, their top place kicker, for their game on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Williams is dealing with a thigh injury that he suffered leading up to the Week 8 game against the Philadelphia Eagles. He was listed as questionable for that game, then later downgraded to out. The good news is Decker was listed as questionable, the best designation available for an injured player.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions could be without Jamaal Williams again, with the starting running back missing his second straight practice on Thursday as the team prepares for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Everyone else, including new Lions wide receiver Josh Reynolds and returning left tackle Taylor Decker, was spotted during the portion of practice open to reporters. I just met him 30 minutes ago,” Lions offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn said when asked about the chances Reynolds plays this weekend. “Jamaal, yeah, he’s coming along,” Lions running backs and assistant head coach Duce Staley said. Quarterback Tim Boyle and cornerbacks Ifeatu Melifonwu and Corey Ballentine also returned to practice this week while still on injured reserve.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions were always active around the trade deadline during the Quinntricia era, wheeling and dealing for guys like Snacks Harrison and Everson Griffen while shipping away personalities they didn’t like such as Golden Tate and Quandre Diggs. This year, all could be quiet on the Detroit Lions front heading into Tuesday’s trade deadline. “I don’t see anything right now that I can say has got any legs,” head coach Dan Campbell said during a video call on Monday afternoon. Anything could happen, but a deal seems unlikely for a bare-bones roster in the early days of a major overhauling. Harris, a third-round pick in 2019, is currently ranked as the worst safety in the league according to ProFootballFocus.

Boston Scott and Jordan Howard each had two touchdowns on the ground, helping the Philadelphia Eagles run over the Detroit Lions in a 44-6 win Sunday.

DETROIT -- The Lions have scratched starting running back Jamaal Williams and slot cornerback A.J. Backup tight end Darren Fells also won’t play, despite not showing up on the injury report all week. Brock Wright, elevated from the practice squad, is the only other tight end who will be in uniform against Philadelphia. But he suffered a thigh injury against the Rams last week and was limited all week at practice. Hand spent the first seven weeks of the season on injured reserve with a groin issue he suffered in training camp.

Dan Campbell hinted at changes to the lineup throughout the week, and while there were tweaks, the Detroit Lions coach didn’t flip the world on its head. Geronimo Allison started at wide receiver for the first time of the season, fresh off getting promoted from the practice squad last week. Safety Dean Marlowe was a healthy scratch, clearing the way for Tracy Walker and Will Harris to dominate snaps back deep. Harris played all 65 defensive snaps while Walker only left the field for two of those plays. Williams ran hard against the Rams, moving the chains in some key spots to keep the Lions in that game.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions (0-5) and Cincinnati Bengals (3-2) meet in Week 6 action back at Ford Field. Swift ran 11 times for 51 yards and one touchdown last week, adding six catches for 53 yards. Williams led the team with 13 carries for 57 yards last week, catching two passes for eight yards. The pair of Lions receivers have shown signs of offering fantasy relevance, with St. Brown seeing eight targets in two straight games. Bengals players to start/sit:START: QB Joe Burrow, WR Ja’Marr Chase, WR Tee Higgins, WR Tyler Boyd TE C.J.

ALLEN PARK -- Jamaal Williams was not spotted at Wednesday’s practice, leaving the Detroit Lions without half of their one-two punch out of the backfield. Williams was a limited participant to start the week while dealing with a hip injury. Igwebuike is likely to replace Ballentine’s return reps if he’s unable to play in Week 6. T.J. Hockenson (knee), Trey Flowers (knee) and Amani Oruwariye (hip) were back in action, though, highlighting the good news from Thursday’s session. Oruwariye was in on drills with the other defensive backs, while Flowers didn’t appear to be limited in his work either.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions (0-4) and Minnesota Vikings (1-3) will meet in Week 5 for the rights to the NFC North’s cellar. Even with that said, start Swift with confidence. Lions players to sitRB Jamaal Williams -- Jamaal Williams has been really good this season when allowed to pound the rock. It’s just tough to count on Williams week in and week out from a fantasy perspective. Vikings players to start/sitSTART: WR Justin Jefferson, WR Adam Thielen, QB Kirk Cousins, RB Dalvin Cook, Vikings D/STMinnesota’s defense making this side of the list should be the lone surprise.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have enjoyed their most success on offense when able to pound the rock. D’Andre Swift has served in a more multi-faceted role, coming off the bench while regularly seeing more snaps than Williams. The Lions are averaging 4.3 yards per rush, putting the team 13th on the league’s rushing charts. Lions offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn said he’s all about riding the hot hand, even admitting he should have continued to find ways to get the ball to Williams last week. The 49ers led 38-10 early in the third quarter before the Lions stormed back to make things interesting in Week 1.

The Lions continued its losing streak Sunday.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions (0-3) are back on the road for a matchup with the Chicago Bears (1-2) in Week 4. Lions players to sitEverybody else: Jared Goff, Darren Fells, the Lions receivers and their defense aren’t worth starting yet. SIT: WR Darnell Mooney, Bears QBsNo additional words are needed to explain why you shouldn’t start a Bears quarterback this weekend, even with the matchup. Mooney has 12 catches for 101 yards on the year, with only one catch for 9 yards last week. With Raymond, he’s worth a play in deeper leagues and daily fantasy lineups.

The latter caught seven balls for 109 yards and one touchdown against the Ravens last week. Say what you will about Lions quarterback Jared Goff, but he’s got it clicking with the young tight end. Lions players to sitLions RB Jamaal Williams: He seemed to fade from the attack with the Lions trailing through the second half last week in Green Bay. Last week, Williams wasn’t as involved in the passing attack, catching three balls for only 12 yards. Ravens RB Latavius Murray: Murray seems to be next in line behind Williams and Jackson in the rushing attack.

Goff completed 13 of 20 passes for 109 yards with an interception and those two fumbles in the second half. Grade: CRunning backs: Not too much to say about the running backs, with them falling out of the gameplan in the putrid second half. The second half? Well, the second half was another story, with a botched snap and interrupted drives with fumbles and penalties. Grade: CRelate stories from Week 2:The Detroit Lions defense remains very bad.

Swift missed practice time on Thursday with a groin injury, which was concerning since he also missed most of training camp with a groin injury. Williams also was listed as limited by a chest injury on Thursday. But both issues appear minor, and the Lions should have both guys at their disposal on Monday night. And the former Packers running back rewarded that faith with an excellent debut. That’s 204 yards of total offense from Detroit’s running backs, despite the Lions having to abandon the running game after falling behind by 28 points.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions head to Green Bay to face the Packers on Monday Night Football in Week 2. This post will serve as a wide-ranging fantasy football preview for that early-season meeting between NFC North rivals. Saints tight end Juwan Johnson had two touchdown catches against the Packers last week, with Adam Trautman adding 18 yards on three receptions. RB Jamaal Williams -- Jamaal Williams spent four productive seasons with the Packers and now gets the chance to see them twice a year. Lions players to sitEverybody else -- None of the Lions wide receivers are to that level, and Darren Fells didn’t have much of a role in the passing attack.

ALLEN PARK -- Jamaal Williams ran for at least 450 yards in each of his four seasons with the Green Bay Packers. In the long, illustrious, championship-filled history of the Green Bay Packers, here is the complete list of players who have done that for them: Jamaal Williams. And when Green Bay didn’t even try to re-sign him after all that, it hurt. Another man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”Now Williams will get a chance to see his ex, and show her what she’s missing on national TV. The Lions travel to Green Bay to face the Packers on Monday Night Football, offering Williams his first opportunity to return to Lambeau Field as a member of the enemy.

The problem facing Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell isn't finding things to fix.

The problem facing Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell isn’t finding things to fix.

DETROIT -- Jamaal Williams got the start out of the backfield for the Detroit Lions in Week 1, but D’Andre Swift dominated the snaps, seeing 63 reps to Williams’ 32. Williams wasn’t forgotten by any means, taking nine carries for 54 yards and one score, notching a 20-yard long for the day. Despite a frantic late comeback attempt, the Lions lost their season opener 41-33 to the San Francisco 49ers. Penei Sewell was welcomed to the NFL with 92 snaps at left tackle, holding his own against 49ers star pass rusher Nick Bosa in the process. -- The edge rusher rotation saw Trey Flowers get 49 snaps, with Charles Harris getting 15 reps and Austin Bryant only one.

Football season is underway, so it’s time to play Monday Morning Quarterback, my favorite position!

DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions lost 41-33 to the San Francisco 49ers in their season opener from Ford Field. He completed 38 of 57 passes for 338 yards with three touchdowns and an interception that San Francisco returned for a touchdown. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.comRunning backs: There isn’t much more the Lions running backs could have done in this one. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.comTight ends: T.J. Hockenson looked ready to take another jump in Year 3 with his performance against SF’s strong defense. San Francisco dominated off the play-action, with Lions linebackers biting too hard on about every fake from behind the line of scrimmage.

Dan Campbell wasn’t thinking about moral victories.

The Detroit Lions host the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1 action, with this post serving as a wide-ranging fantasy preview for the first week of the campaign. Lions players to sitRB D’Andre Swift -- Swift’s inclusion on this section doesn’t have anything to do with his expected touches, but more the tough task against this defense, not to mention his limited preseason and training camp. Any Lions WR -- There is some fantasy sleeper potential in Detroit’s thin receiver room, mainly because of so much speed and over-the-top ability. 49ers players to start/sitSTART: WR Deebo Samuel, TE George Kittle, WR Brandon AiyukPretty straightforward stuff with these names, right? Still, the Lions might be able to keep those two in check for the most part, at least in terms of fantasy output.

Parker (shoulder) and defensive linemen Michael Brockers (shoulder) and Nick Williams (elbow) all missed practice time on Wednesday as preparations began for the opener on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. He is expected to play on Sunday against San Francisco, although could be on a pitch count if his conditioning isn’t up after all that lost time. “I didn’t want to miss training camp, it was unfortunate,” Brockers said recently. On the offensive side, Decker is still expected to start against San Francisco despite a finger injury. Swift missed most of training camp with a nagging groin injury that left the coaching staff concerned about his availability for Week 1.

The five Lions players were quarterback Jared Goff, cornerback Amani Oruwariye, running back Jamaal Williams, and offensive linemen Taylor Decker and Frank Ragnow. The Lions open the regular season against the San Francisco 49ers on Sept. 12 from Ford Field. It was unbelievable and our fans, you guys were kicking it, and our players felt it. That’s, man, that’s energy. I like to dance and really be on the field is when I, that’s like my peace zone.

The worldwide leader projects him for 4,367 passing yards with 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in his debut season in Detroit. Detroit Lions running back D'Andre Swift (32) looks on during their training camp practice at their team headquarters in Allen Park, on Saturday, July 31, 2021. Swift and Jamaal Williams are a solid one-two punch on paper, without question, even before factoring in the team’s foundational offensive line. ESPN projects Swift at 785 yards with six touchdowns, with 66 catches for 495 yards and two touchdowns. Detroit Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson (88) catches a pass during their training camp practice at their team headquarters in Allen Park, on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have their one-two punch of D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams out of the backfield. Still, they continue to evaluate their running back depth ahead of the preseason finale and final roster cuts. A battle,” Lions running backs and assistant head coach Duce Staley said. This will be a big game for them.”The Lions and Colts are expected to rest their starters in Friday’s exhibition. “That third running back spot, it’s very competitive right now.”Reynolds came out of nowhere with his surprise push for a roster spot.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions’ starting offense net 59 yards on 21 plays and scored three points in the loss against Buffalo in the preseason opener. And that was enough for the Lions to consider shutting down several notable players until the regular season, including starting quarterback Jared Goff, star tight end T.J. Hockenson and top running back D’Andre Swift. “I’ll tell you this -- it’s been in my head for probably about a week -- I’m starting to think about now maybe sitting a few of these guys, a select few veterans, is kind of what I’m thinking. The injury is minor, but Hockenson might not play in the preseason anyway -- not that he needs too anyway. “Brockers is getting better, and we’ll see him play hopefully next week and work him back in during practice,” Campbell said.

DETROIT -- After 13 practices and a 16-14 loss to the Buffalo Bills in their preseason opener, the Lions’ roster is starting to take shape. Here’s betting the rookie wins the starting job in the slot, and becomes one of Jared Goff’s favorite targets this season. One other name to note: Tom Kennedy, who actually led Detroit in catches (four) and receiving yards (46) against Buffalo. Secondary (11)In: CB Jeff Okudah, CB Amani Oruwariye, CB Mike Ford, CB Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB Nickell Robey-Coleman, CB A.J. Parker, S Tracy Walker, S Will Harris, S Dean Marlowe, S C.J.

DETROIT -- D’Andre Swift was held out of the preseason opener, with the Detroit Lions taking a good look at their new-look running back depth. The Lions used six different running backs in the 16-15 loss to the Buffalo Bills, with Jamaal Williams getting first-team work and a room-leading 22 snaps. He carried it, he’s thick, he’s in great shape.”Seventh-round rookie Jermar Jefferson was next in line with 11 snaps. Mills had 11 snaps, making an impact with a 20-yard run to convert on fourth down. Veteran Darren Fells wasn’t far behind Mack with 21 reps.Charlie Taumoepeau was next in line with 17 snaps.

But the Lions are dismissing those concerns, saying they believe their running game will be dangerous enough to help set up shots down the field. “I mean, once you can run the ball -- we have a great O-line, great running backs -- and play-action pass is huge. So if you can establish a good run game, I think the shots will come later. “I’ve seen plenty of deep balls down the field,” offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn said. If you run the ball well, you’ve got to play the run, and that’s when we take our shots over your head.

ALLEN PARK -- D’Andre Swift was drawing comparisons to Alvin Kamara before he ever put on a uniform in Detroit. Perhaps that Kamara comparison will hold yet, especially now that he has a power complement alongside him in Jamaal Williams. Murray was that guy for us, and that’s how I see Jamaal Williams for us, for Detroit. He was a valuable complementary back for Aaron Jones, and he figures to be the same for Swift in Detroit. I’m glad we got him, I know that.”About those Kamara and Ingram comparisons, Williams acknowledged the fit too.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions remain interested in signing running back Todd Gurley, but aren’t sweating his visit to Baltimore on Thursday either. But Detroit believes Gurley still has enough gas in the tank to be that guy. “Oh man, Todd Gurley, the name -- you sit back and say his name and all kind of highlights just pop up,” running backs coach Duce Staley said. We’re looking at anyone who can help the Lions, and Todd Gurley definitely can help the Lions. Now he’s in Baltimore visiting the Ravens, leaving the Lions in some limbo as they wrap up mandatory minicamp.

ALLEN PARK -- Todd Gurley remains unsigned a week after he visited Detroit Lions headquarters, but don’t mistake that for a loss of interest. This guy is out there working, he’s staying out there, he’s asking questions, he’s catching balls, he’s going through footwork. He struggled to recapture that form in Atlanta last season, running for 678 yards on 195 carries. “Oh man, Todd Gurley, the name -- you sit back and say his name and all kind of highlights just pop up,” Staley said. We’re looking at anyone who can help the Lions, and Todd Gurley definitely can help the Lions.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions are busy getting their draft class signed ahead of the team’s three-day rookie minicamp. The team made the signings of seventh-round running back Jermar Jefferson and third-round defensive tackle Alim McNeill official ahead of today’s minicamp. It’s worth noting Sewell is expected to miss the team’s rookie minicamp due to a positive coronavirus test. He ran for 521 yards and eight touchdowns, adding 357 yards and two touchdown receptions in 13 games. Boyd is one year removed from rushing for 1,133 yards and eight touchdowns inside the SEC.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions will open the 2021 campaign hosting the San Francisco 49ers, a familiar opponent for new quarterback Jared Goff. Detroit landed back on the prime-time slate this season, drawing the Green Bay Packers for Monday Night Football in Week 2. They’ll host the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving, the third time in four years that matchup has happened on turkey day. The bye comes a little later this season, landing on Week 9 after hosting the Philadelphia Eagles. The Lions will also face the last-place teams from the NFC South, NFC East and AFC West.

Detroit Lions running back Jamaal Williams has stars tattoos with the names of important women in his life, including his mom, sister and grandmother.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions are waiving former second-round pick Kerryon Johnson per the NFL Network. New Lions running backs coach Duce Staley has said he sees a “three-down back” when he looks at Swift. Holmes has expressed confidence in Jefferson’s one-cut ability to be a slippery back on Detroit’s inside zone looks. He runs hard, he just has a natural feel from a lot of inside zone stuff,” Holmes said of the rookie back. “But he can do all phases, gap power stuff, inside zone stuff.

Former Green Bay Packers running back Jamaal Williams agreed to hop across Lake Michigan for a two-year deal worth up to $7.5 million in Detroit. It’s worth noting Williams delivered an entertaining introductory press conference, poking fun at the facial hair and “Silver Foxes” in attendance. “Then you talk about Jamaal Williams,” Campbell said. We think Swift is going to grow into something pretty special. When I look at D’Andre, I do think he’s a three-down back.”Kerryon Johnson’s presence is another factor worth tracking through the offseason.

Green Bay Packers running back Jamaal Williams (30) celebrates a touchdown off a throw by quarterback Aaron Rodgers during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)(Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

FILE - San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Trent Williams (71) looks on prior to an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, in Glendale, Ariz., in this Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, file photo. (AP Photo/Jennifer Stewart, File)As the NFL opened its business year Wednesday, veterans Trent Williams, A.J. The Seahawks addressed another need, agreeing to terms with tight end Gerald Everett on a one-year deal. Ad— Kansas City agreed to a $5 million contract for next season with three-time Pro Bowl guard Kyle Long, who will come out of retirement. — New England brought back center Ted Karras on a one-year, $4 million contract.

The Pro Bowl running back, Jones has agreed to a new deal with the Green Bay Packers and wont be exploring free agency. Drew Rosenhaus, Jones agent, confirmed that his client had agreed on a four-year deal worth $48 million that includes a $13 million signing bonus. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke, File)Pro Bowl running back Aaron Jones has agreed to a new deal with the Green Bay Packers and won’t be exploring free agency. Drew Rosenhaus, Jones’ agent, confirmed that his client had agreed on a four-year deal worth $48 million that includes a $13 million signing bonus. “We anticipated bigger offers in free agency, but Aaron wanted to stay with the Packers,” Rosenhaus said via email.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) walks off the field after the NFC championship NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Green Bay, Wis., Sunday, Jan. 24, 2021. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)GREEN BAY, Wis. – Aaron Rodgers said he's not sure what his future holds in Green Bay. Green Bay allowed a total of 16 sacks in its other 16 games. The NFC championship game reflected the occasional inconsistency of Green Bay’s defense under Pettine. Green Bay’s most notable flaw during its seven-game streak was its occasional tendency to have a breakdown on special teams.

Thompson was Packers general manager from 2005-17 and drafted many notable players on the current roster, including two-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer, File)GREEN BAY, Wis. – Ted Thompson, whose 13-year run as Green Bay Packers general manager included their 2010 Super Bowl championship season, has died. Mike Sherman had been working as Packers coach and general manager up to that point. “Certainly he’s a guy who’s held in the highest regard in this building and, I think, just around the league,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. Gutekunst, who had been working with Thompson as player personnel director, was promoted to general manager and remains in that position.

The Green Bay Packers teammates would love the opportunity to produce plenty of similar scenes next month by staying home throughout the NFC playoffs. Rodgers threw four touchdown passes as the Packers trounced the Tennessee Titans 40-14 for their fifth consecutive victory Sunday night. I think we proved that tonight.”Playing in the cold at Green Bay is tough for road teams, anyway. With snow falling throughout the first half and continuing to cover much of the field the rest of the game, Green Bay moved the ball at will all night. Green Bay pulled ahead 19-0 when Rodgers threw touchdown passes on each of their first three possessions.

Aaron Rodgers threw for a season-low 143 yards but produced a touchdown pass – his 40th of the season – and a touchdown run for the Packers. Green Bay (11-3) won its fourth straight and took a half-game lead over New Orleans (10-3) in the race for the NFC’s best record. Mason Crosby gave the Packers some breathing room with a 51-yard field goal with 3:39 left, but the Panthers wouldn't go away. The strategy didn't work then Green Bay stopped Carolina on its final possession. Green Bay hosts Tennessee in another night game on Dec. 27.

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The NFL and the union are investigating the San Francisco 49ers and receiver Kendrick Bourne for possible violations of the league’s coronavirus protocols. A person familiar with the investigation says the probe is looking into whether Bourne was wearing a face covering as required by the COVID-19 rules. Bourne was placed on the COVID-19 list on Wednesday after testing positive for the coronavirus. The Packers also have their own coronavirus issues after running back AJ Dillon tested positive and was placed on the COVID-19 list Monday. Running back Jamaal Williams and linebacker Kamal Martin were also placed on the list because of high-risk close contacts.

The team said the positive test came back Wednesday morning and Bourne immediately went into self-quarantine after getting the diagnosis. Bourne is the 49ers’ third-leading receiver with 25 receptions for 352 yards and a touchdown. This is the first positive coronavirus test for the 49ers since the start of the regular season. The Packers are dealing with their own issues with the coronavirus after running back AJ Dillon tested positive on Monday. Running back Jamaal Williams and linebacker Kamal Martin were placed on the COVID-19 list on Tuesday as “high-risk” contacts to Dillon.

Green Bay had the ball at Minnesota's 41-yard line with 12 seconds and no timeouts left, but D.J. Each of the Vikings’ first four possessions ended with Cook touchdowns. Green Bay went a 2-point conversion got within 28-22 when replays determined the ball crossed the goal line on Jamaal Williams’ inside run. Green Bay got the ball back and reached Minnesota’s 41-yard line with 12 seconds and no timeouts left, but D.J. Four times in the second half, Green Bay reached Vikings territory without scoring.

The Packers (4-0) and Detroit Lions (1-3) don’t play this week and therefore are the first NFL teams to get a taste of how different off weeks will be amid a pandemic. “We have new protocols in place that are meant to keep everybody safe and healthy,” Lions coach Matt Patricia said. The NFL sent out a reminder Friday that the league’s agreement with the NFL Players Association in August means players who miss tests can be punished with a $50,000 fine. “You’ve got to look no further than Tennessee.”The protocols are impacting some players more than others. While the protocols have changed those plans, it has created opportunities for those players who already have their family members with them.

Tonyan caught three of Aaron Rodgers’ four touchdown passes, Za'Darius Smith recorded three sacks and the Packers remained unbeaten with a 30-16 victory over the winless Atlanta Falcons on Monday night. “I just had to continue to do what I've been doing, just keep playing well and stick to the game plan,” Tonyan said. Green Bay star receiver Davante Adams sat out a second straight game with a hamstring injury and Allen Lazard is on injured reserve with a core problem. Tonyan has scored in three straight games and now has five touchdown catches to match Tampa Bay's Mike Evans for the NFL lead. Defensive tackle Kenny Clark (groin) missed a third straight game.