ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions’ pursuit of a No. 2 running back continues, this time hosting Spencer Ware on a free-agent visit according to ESPN.
The 27-year-old back is best known for his days in Kansas City. He was the guy who was called upon to replace Jamaal Charles in 2016, and responded by running for 921 yards and adding another 447 through the air. He did not play in 2017 because of a knee injury and lost his starting job to then-rookie Kareem Hunt. He got another crack at it last year when Hunt was released because of an assault case, but struggled to recapture the magic, rushing for just 246 yards on 51 carries.
Ware began his career in Seattle, which took him in the sixth round of the 2013 draft. Current Lions offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell was calling the Seahawks’ plays at the time. But Spence got just three carries and was released the following year.
Detroit is coming off its best rushing season in a half-decade, but is looking to improve its depth behind breakout star Kerryon Johnson. LeGarrette Blount handled the role last year, but struggled, averaging a career-worst 2.7 yards per carry. That was last in the league among running backs with at least 70 carries.
The Lions have already re-signed Zach Zenner for depth in the backfield, plus still has Theo Riddick under contract. They’ve also hosted veteran running backs like Mike Gillislee and Malcolm Brown on free-agent visits in recent weeks.