In a move that suggests the Detroit Lions needed better running back depth as opposed to just running back depth, the team released Aaron Brown on Tuesday, to officially make room for and sign Joique Bell. The team had apparently agreed to terms with Bell on Monday, but it was unclear who would be getting released. Bell played college ball at Wayne State in Detroit, and was signed off of the New Orleans Saints practice squad.
Brown was initially a casualty of the final round of NFL roster cuts at the beginning of the season, but was brought back when starter Jahvid Best was placed on injured reserve with a concussion. Since then, Kevin Smith has become the guy in Detroit, but he's also been hampered with some injuries. Brown only had one carry, for no yardage, and a reception for nine yards in his only NFL action this season.
Bell will wear No. 35 for the Lions and is likely to be active in Week 17 against the Green Bay Packers. If he plays well, there's a chance he could make an appearance in the playoffs. At this point, Detroit is just looking for one of their backs to really show a spark offensively to contribute to the solid play of quarterback Matthew Stafford.