Upside
While Joique Bell was missing time during the off-season workouts, Theo Riddick took advantage and impressed his new coaching staff. Compared to last season, he appeared a little faster and is putting himself in position to have more of a real role in this offense in ‘14. Backup QB Dan Orlovsky said that Theo could end up with 50 receptions this season.
Downside
In his first NFL season, he played on just 49 snaps, resulting in nine carries and four receptions. He still sits at No. 3 on the depth chart behind Reggie Bush and Bell, so his playing time will likely be limited again.
Bottom Line
While Riddick will be a backup to start the season, he will receive his chances on the field with the new offense. He’s not worthy of a roster spot in September, but if Bush or Bell were to go down at some point this season, Theo may be able to fill in nicely without much loss in production if the Lions decide to keep the game plan the same. Riddick and Mikel Leshoure may be in line for bigger roles this season, but it’s hard to imagine either one of them taking too much playing time and touches away from a healthy Bush and Bell.
