Detroit Lions

12-5-0,#7 Overall 12-5-0, 1st in NFC North , 3rd in NFC Playoff Odds: 100.0%  |  Super Bowl Odds: 0.0%
2023-24 Season
12-5-0 Record
#2 ‐ #28 Off-Def
#2 Offense
#28 Defense
#7 Overall

Zach Zenner electric with the Lions' first-team

Zach Zenner rushed eight times for 85 yards and a touchdown in the Lions' third preseason game.

What It Means:

Zenner, an undrafted free agent out of South Dakota State, is the clear preseason MVP for the Lions. Through three games, he has totaled 162 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries (6.5 YPC), plus six receptions for 60 yards and a score through the air. He's almost certainly locked up a roster spot, and may even push Joique Bell for big-back duties if Bell isn't healthy.

Bell is an underrated receiver but an underwhelming runner. Last year, he ranked tied for 29th in per-play Rushing Net Expected Points among backs with at least 50 carries, despite an 11th-place finish in Target NEP and a 14th-place one in per-play Reception NEP. He's not a special talent, and his injury could open the door for Zenner or fellow rookie Ameer Abdullah to seize the lead role in this backfield.