Detroit Lions’ Running Back Targets for the 2025 NFL Combine
The 2025 NFL Combine is right around the corner, and the Detroit Lions are keeping a close eye on several running backs who could help bolster their depth. With on-field drills scheduled for Saturday, March 1, this day will also feature quarterbacks and wide receivers, both groups previously highlighted in our ongoing Combine preview series.
Lions’ Running Back Situation: The Lions are set with their primary running backs—Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery—who are expected to co-start, with Sione Vaki stepping in as a solid backup through at least the 2027 season. However, there’s still one open spot on the depth chart. Craig Reynolds, the current RB3, is a restricted free agent, and his potential departure could create a void. Should Reynolds leave, the Lions might turn to a deep running back pool in this draft to fill the gap.
What the Lions Are Looking For: Detroit’s front office typically values traits such as contact balance, explosiveness, and the ability to contribute in the passing game when evaluating running backs. Scouts will be watching closely for things like balance through the hips, acceleration during cuts, and a running back’s natural ability to catch the ball, as seen in Jahmyr Gibbs’ flawless performance in the “Duce Staley drill” at the 2023 NFL Combine.
Jahmyr Gibbs is like a seasoned hula dancer. His lower body is pistoning off the ground while his upper body barely moves. Elite balance. pic.twitter.com/r4h0h8f5wt
— Erik Schlitt (@erikschlitt) March 6, 2023
A Deep Running Back Class: This year’s running back group is being hailed as one of the best in NFL Draft history, with over 30 backs expected to hear their names called in April. 31 running backs will be participating in the Combine, giving Detroit plenty of options to consider. Given the Lions’ depth at the position, however, it’s likely they’ll target Day 3 prospects or even undrafted free agents.
Here’s a closer look at a few backs that could catch the Lions’ eye:
Cam Skattebo, Arizona State (5-foot-10, 215 pounds):
Skattebo’s power-based game could make him a perfect fit for Detroit’s offensive scheme. A tough, downhill runner with excellent contact balance, Skattebo creates yards after contact and has a knack for breaking tackles. While his long speed is questionable and his feet can be a bit stiff, his receiving skills and NFL-ready pass protection make him an intriguing option for the Lions.
Cam Skattebo is relentless. Fantastic contact balance pic.twitter.com/QjeTYMGFhZ
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) December 7, 2024
Jarquez Hunter, Auburn (5-foot-9, 212 pounds):
Hunter is a versatile back who shows great patience behind the line of scrimmage, waiting for lanes to develop before attacking with aggression. His contact balance is strong, and he runs with power reminiscent of Craig Reynolds, but with added speed. However, Hunter needs to be more urgent in his decision-making and his size can sometimes limit his effectiveness in pass protection.
Jarquez Hunter #Auburn
– Acceleration
– Power
-Speed (20.6 mph here)#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/kYsBU5kfhO— Matt Waldman (@MattWaldman) January 27, 2025
Kalel Mullins, Michigan (6-foot-2, 233 pounds):
A former linebacker, Mullins brings an interesting dynamic to the table with his strong vision and physical running style. He gains yards after contact and excels in pass protection. His lack of receiving production at Michigan could be a concern, but his ability to contribute on special teams and his clean fumble record (zero fumbles in 185 carries over the past two years) make him an intriguing option.
Kalel Mullings led #Michigan to a last-second win at rival Ohio State with a game-high 116 yards and one touchdown!https://t.co/zBrTQwYiCX pic.twitter.com/yzsHN0KZut
— Chas Post (@chas_post23) December 1, 2024
Kyle Monangai, Rutgers (5-foot-9, 210 pounds):
Monangai is built for a Lions-style offense—short bursts of power that help him break tackles and grind out yards. His tough, gritty running style, especially at the goal line, makes him a real threat. He excels in pass protection and has an impressive fumble-free career with 676 carries. While not the fastest or most polished receiver, his hard-nosed mentality and ability to win one-on-one battles could appeal to the Lions.
Speed, contact balance, and a big back in a small frame (5’9, 209) are what you get in Kyle Monangai. He’s flown ✈️ under the radar 📡.
Back to back 1300 YFS, efficiency (5.2, 5.0 YPC), and 13 TOT TD this year prove his worth. Don’t forget the name. pic.twitter.com/YA5ye4Fqac
— PlayerProfiler NOW+ (@Profiler_Now) December 12, 2024
Bhayshul Tuten, Virginia Tech (5-foot-9, 211 pounds):
Tuten’s speed and elusiveness set him apart from the pack. His ability to force missed tackles and break free with sharp cuts makes him a dynamic threat. While his vision can fluctuate, and his ball security needs improvement, his NFL-level contact balance and playmaking ability could be enough to catch Detroit’s attention.
BHAYSHUL TUTEN TAKES IT 83 YARDS 💨
The Hokies have broke it open early 😳 pic.twitter.com/WtEbrn7dGX
— CFB Kings (@CFBKings) October 18, 2024
Jaydon Blue, Texas (5-foot-11, 200 pounds):
Having worked under former position coach Tashard Choice, who is now with the Lions, Detroit has a leg up on evaluating Blue. A change-of-pace back with impressive speed and receiving skills, Blue excels in the open field and could be a mismatch for defenders. While he’s not as physical as some of the others, his pass-catching ability could make him a valuable weapon in the Lions’ offense.
With the 2025 NFL Combine fast approaching, these backs could be potential targets for Detroit’s front office. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the next phase of this exciting draft cycle.
Jaydon Blue💨💨
— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 21, 2024
