The Detroit Lions are facing a pivotal moment in their running back lineup as they navigate the absence of Isiah Pacheco due to injury. With Pacheco expected to miss at least the first four games of the season, Jacob Saylors is stepping up as the primary backup, a role that was initially anticipated to be filled by Pacheco.
This offseason, the Lions made headlines by trading running back David Montgomery, which left a significant void in their backfield. Although Pacheco was expected to take on a larger role, his recent struggles with injuries have opened the door for Saylors to make his mark. Mike Payton of A to Z Sports has made a bold prediction, suggesting that Saylors could not only seize the backup position but also solidify his status as a key player for the Lions moving forward.
Payton expressed confidence in Saylors’ potential, stating, "I’m not saying Saylors is going to run for 1,000 yards, but I am saying he’s going to have a good enough season to the point where the Lions say he’s their guy going forward." He anticipates that Saylors could accumulate between 500 to 600 rushing yards, a notable contribution considering Pacheco's uncertain return.
Pacheco's injury history has been a concern for the Lions. After a promising start to his career, where he logged 375 rushing attempts in his first two seasons, his performance has been hampered by injuries. In 2024, he suffered a foot injury that limited him to just seven games. Although he returned to the field in 2025, he played only 12 games, averaging 3.9 yards per carry with 118 carries. His latest setback, a back injury, has now placed him on injured reserve, raising questions about his future with the team.
As Saylors takes center stage, his journey to this point has been anything but conventional. A 2023 undrafted free agent from East Tennessee State, Saylors spent time on practice squads with the Cincinnati Bengals and Atlanta Falcons before finding a home with the Lions. Despite limited opportunities last season, where he recorded just two carries for 11 yards, his perseverance has paid off in the preseason.
In the current preseason, Saylors has distinguished himself from the competition, leading the Lions with 31 rushing attempts for 187 yards. His ability to break off significant runs, including four rushes of 15 yards or more, showcases his potential to contribute meaningfully to the Lions' offense.
With the Lions looking to solidify their running game, Saylors' emergence as a reliable backup could be crucial. If he continues to perform well, he could see close to 100 rushing attempts this season, a significant increase compared to his previous year. This opportunity not only allows him to prove his worth to the Lions but also positions him as a key player in their offensive strategy.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Saylors to see if he can maintain this momentum and secure his place in the Lions' lineup, especially with Pacheco's return still uncertain.
Leave a Comment