Lions Bring Back Zach Zenner After Strong Finish In 2018

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Photo credit © Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The Lions' top running back behind Kerryon Johnson in 2019 will be...Zach Zenner? Right now, that's how it's shaping up. 

Detroit brought back Zenner on a one-year deal on Tuesday.

The four-year vet was released by the Lions last September after breaking two bones in his back, and at the time considered retirement to pursue his career as a doctor. But the Lions re-signed him in Novemer, and he closed the season strong with 4.7 yards per carry and three touchdowns over the final four games. 

Zenner's late-season flourish was fueled by a drastic body transformation he underwent during his time away from the team. Looks like it's continuing to pay dividends.

The #Lions have agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension with RB Zach Zenner. pic.twitter.com/ADKUpkpZXh

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) March 12, 2019

While a lot can change between now and the start of the season, Zenner looks like No. 2 on Detroit's depth chart at running back. Johnson will lead the way, with Theo Riddick penciled in as the pass catcher. 

The Lions have been connected to Mark Ingram in free agency, but it seems likely Ingram lands somewhere else. That would be just fine for Zenner, who turned down a handful of suitors to stay in Detroit, according to ESPN.com. 

An undrafted free agent out of South Dakota State in 2015, Zenner has spent his entire career with the Lions. He may well be in line for his biggest opportunity yet.