Detroit Lions Re-Sign Running Back Justin Jackson

The Detroit Lions have re-signed running  back Justin Jackson, according to multiple reports. 

Terms of the contract were not immediately released. 

Many were surprised when the veteran was not re-signed earlier. 

A five-year veteran, he spent last season as the Lions’ third running back. An injury to Craig Reynolds created a role for Jackson, who consistently performed.

He finished 2022 with 42 carries for 170 yards and a touchdown. Among his best games was a nine-carry, 66-yard showing against the New York Giants.

Upon returning, he will compete to keep his role from a season ago. 

Among the other running backs vying for the No. 3 position on the depth chart are Jermar Jefferson, Reynolds and undrafted rookie free agent Mohamid Ibrahim.

Additionally, Jackson provided an impact on the Lions’ special teams units. He averaged 26.7 yards on his 23 return attempts. 

In total, he played 250 special teams snaps last season.

In his career, he’s rushed 248 times for 1,210 yards and five scores. Prior to joining the Lions, he spent the first four seasons of his career with the Chargers. 

During his time with Los Angeles, he served as a reliable backup for Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler. 

His best season came in 2021 when he rushed for 364 yards and two scores. 

The Lions revamped their running back room this off-season. 

Veteran David Montgomery and rookie Jahmyr Gibbs are new additions, while 2022 starters Jamaal Williams and D’Andre Swift have departed. 

In a corresponding move, Greg Bell was waived.