A week after bringing in Todd Gurley for a free-agent visit, the Lions aren't hiding their interest in the former Offensive Player of the Year.
"We have interest in Todd, we do. And we’re talking with he and his agent," Dan Campbell said Thursday. "We do we have interest in him, but I would say this: just because we have interest in him, that does not affect our feelings and our thoughts on both (D'Andre) Swift and Jamaal (Williams). It does not."
Gurley, who turns 27 in August, was in Detroit last Thursday. He spent last season on a one-year deal with the Falcons, rushing for a career-low 3.5 yards per carry in 15 games. He did score nine touchdowns.
It sounds like the Lions are seeking his veteran leadership -- and whatever he has left in the tank -- to support a young backfield headlined by Swift, who said he'd welcome the chance to team up with his fellow Georgia product.
Campbell said the team would prefer to get Gurley signed before the start of training camp.
"I think if we can do it sooner than later, we’d like to," he said. "But look, we’re not setting a deadline on it. We do we have interest in the guy, but that’s kind of where it is right now."
Offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn said Thursday Gurley "has a wealth of experience he can pass along to our young backs."
"And hopefully he’s got some juice left. If he’s a Lion, we’ll figure out a good way to use him. But I’ve heard nothing but great things about his intangibles. So what Dan’s trying to get done here culture wise, I think he would be a good fit," said Lynn.
Drafted 10th overall by the Rams in 2015 when current Lions GM Brad Holmes was the Rams' director of college scouting, Gurley ran roughshod over the NFL his first four seasons. He was a three-time Pro Bowler, two-time All-Pro and Offensive Player of the Year in 2017.
His numbers have declined the past two seasons, in part due to wear and tear. Gurley's averaged over 200 carries per season in his seven-year career. Maybe the Lions can help him turn back the clock in a smaller role.
"Todd Gurley, you sit back and say his name and all kinds of highlights just pop up," said assistant head coach and running backs coach Duce Staley. "Here’s a guy who’s been very successful in the league. You go back a couple years ago he was unstoppable.
"We’re looking at anybody that can help the Lions, and Todd Gurley can definitely help the Lions. His leadership along with Jamaal’s leadership in the room, and just being able to go out here have and have fun, I know the kid, the kid loves the game and he loves to have fun. He’d be a good addition."
Perhaps sooner than later.