Detroit Lions sign RB Kevin Smith on new one year contract - NFL News
Detroit Lions have spent most of this year’s free agency negotiating contracts with their own free agents.
On Tuesday, the Lions brought back running back Kevin Smith to the franchise after signing him up on a one year deal.
Smith joins running backs Jahvid Best, James Bryant and Mikel Leshoure on the Lions roster and will be hoping that this year he would remain injury free and help the Lions reduce dependency on the pass game.
The running back was ecstatic with his new deal, as he took to Twitter to tell the good news to fans.
"Just finished a great work out with frank gore, and Matt forte and just found out I will be back n the d next year. #imback,"
In another tweet he thanked his friends, family and fans for their continued support.
"Thanks for all the support from family, friends, fans feels good to be back in Detroit, I'm glad the organization feels I can help this team take the next step. Look forward to the next step in my career. Be blessed people thanks again."
The running back though has faced several injury problems since first joining Detroit as a third round draft pick in 2008.
His rookie season was brilliant as Smith played all 16 games for the Lions ending up with 976-yards on 238 attempts while scoring eight touchdowns.
After that season, Smith failed to deliver on the same level as injuries continually ended his time on the field.
It seemed that the running back was returning back to his earlier levels as he scored four touchdowns and gained 356 rushing yards from 72 attempts. However, once again injuries struck and after just seven games in the season Smith once again was out of
the game.
Detroit general manager Martin Mayhew confirmed the signing on the official Lions website and praised Smith’s abilities.
“He’s a versatile back. He can do a lot of things. He’s really good on third down, a good pass protector and a very intelligent football player.”
Detroit made it to the playoffs for the first time since 1999 in the previous season and are looking to improve on that feat in the new 2012-13 season.
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