The Lions' search for a running back continues.
In the wake of Kerryon Johnson's knee injury, they were linked to both Melvin Gordon and Devtona Freeman in trade rumors. They pushed particularly hard for Freeman.
And on Friday they worked out Jay Ajayi, according to Adam Schefter.
Ajayi, 26, finished fourth in the league in rushing with the Dolphins in 2016, then helped the Eagles win the Super Bowl in 2017. He was positioned as Philadelphia's top running back to start last season, but tore his ACL in Week 5 and hasn't played since. Over his four-year career, he's averaged 4.5 yards per carry.
The Lions have struggled to run the ball all season, ranking 22nd in the NFL in yards per game (96.9) and 26th in yards per carry (3.6). This is despite ranking 12th in attempts per game.
In their first game without Johnson last week, the Lions turned primarily to Tra Carson and rookie Ty Johnson. Carson was effective in spurts, but was held out of practice Thursday due to a hamstring injury.
Matt Patricia said Carson will practice on Friday.
"We'll see what it looks like from that aspect of it, and we just keep pushing forward. We're always ready for players whether they can or cannot play, and we'll see. It's a day-by-day thing for us," said Patricia.
The Lions visit the Raiders on Sunday, looking for their second win in a row. Johnson is on the shelf until at least Week 16.
