Jermar Jefferson Competing For No. 3 Job
3 years agoDetroit Lions running backs D'Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams are the clear top-two backs in Detroit, and they are expected to split carries in offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn's scheme. Jermar Jefferson was drafted in the seventh round this year and started to come on strong at the end of the offseason training program, especially in the passing game. He'll have to hold off Dedrick Mills and Mike Warren II in training camp. Lynn likes versatility in his backs, so Jefferson could have a leg up in the competition because of his abilities as a pass-catcher. However, he'll also have to prove that he can protect the quarterback in obvious passing situations. The 21-year-old averaged 143 rushing yards per game at Oregon State last year, which ranked fourth in college football. Jefferson is a bruising back who ran for 858 yards and seven touchdowns in just six starts in 2020, but the rookie is unlikely to have much fantasy value in redraft leagues this year unless one of Swift or Williams miss time with an injury. Swift and Williams are both capable of factoring into the passing game and catching plenty of passes, which probably won't leave a ton left over for Jefferson if he wins the No. 3 job.
Source: DetroitLions.com - Tim Twentyman
Source: DetroitLions.com - Tim Twentyman