Lions Reportedly Work Out Former Patriots, Bills RB Mike Gillislee

The Lions are in need of another running back behind Kerryon Johnson, specifically a bruiser to complement Johnson's style. 

Could veteran Mike Gillislee be their guy? The Lions worked out the free agent on Thursday, according to Ian Rapoport, following up on their interest in him last year. 

The #Lions hosted and worked out FA RB Mike Gillislee yesterday, source said. They were one of the teams that called about signing him last year. He played in four games with the #Saints last year.

Gillislee produced little in limited action last year with the Saints. But he led the league in yards per carry (5.7) three years ago with the Bills, the same season he scored eight touchdowns. 

Perhaps most importantly, he has the all-important Patriots connection, having played nine games for New England in 2017. In fact, Gillislee, a fifth-round draft pick of the Dolphins in 2013, spent the first five years of his career in the AFC East. 

Both Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn surely know him well. 

The Lions have a need at running back with LeGarrette Blount -- last year's ex-Pats import in the backfield -- set to depart via free agency and Zach Zenner a question mark to return. Theo Riddick is under contract for one more season.