The Detroit Lions had one of the most exciting run games in the NFL last season, thanks to the one-two punch of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. But as the team gets ready for 2025, some tough decisions are coming at the bottom of the depth chart—and it could spell trouble for a rookie with a strong college résumé.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Vito Chirco, the Lions’ backfield competition is heating up, and a final roster spot could come down to two undrafted rookies: Anthony Tyus III and Kye Robichaux.
The favorites to round out the running back room behind Gibbs and Montgomery are Craig Reynolds and Sione Vaki. Both played key roles last season and have become reliable special teams contributors. Vaki even forced a fumble and logged 310 snaps on special teams alone.
That leaves Robichaux fighting for one final spot—and right now, Tyus appears to be leading the race.
It’s a tough break for Robichaux, who scored 10 touchdowns last season at Boston College and carved out a niche as a physical, short-yardage back. He’s known for bulldozing defenders near the goal line—six of his seven TDs in 2023 came from inside the five.
His hard-nosed style could still earn him a role, especially with Detroit not carrying a traditional fullback. But unless he flashes something big in training camp, Robichaux might be on the outside looking in—and headed to the practice squad.
The Lions’ running back room is deep, but it’s also ruthless. One or two plays could be the difference between making the roster or watching from the sidelines.
Lions Rookie RB Could Be Cut Despite Scoring 10 TDs Last Season
