Joique Bell still the Lions' starting RB, Zenner says

Maybe it meant nothing. He is a rookie, after all.

But Detroit Lions running back Zach Zenner might have dropped a hint about his team's backfield plans Tuesday when asked about his own special teams play and how much that will factor into his fight for a spot on the 53-man roster.

"I think it plays a big role, yeah," Zenner said. "Especially when Joique returns, he's set up to be the starting running back at this point. So for me to make an impact on this team I think for sure right away it's going to have to be special teams."

Zenner and fellow rookie Ameer Abdullah both had big days in the Lions' 23-3 preseason-opening win over the New York Jets last week, but the expectation has long been that Joique Bell will return as starter once he's activated from the physically unable to perform list later this month.

Bell led the Lions with 860 yards rushing last year, but he's battled knee problems each of the last two seasons and had knee and Achilles surgery this winter.

He's ramped up his rehab work during practice over the last week, and said last Friday he hopes to return soon.

"Seeing all my teammates out there, it makes me anxious wanting to get back out," Bell said. "Me sitting on the sidelines (against the Jets) and like, 'Wow, my guys are out here balling,' that kind of inspired me to want to get back quicker. But we have to take our time with these things and that's what I'm doing and I'm going to continue to do."

Abdullah, the Lions' second-round pick, had an impressive debut against the Jets last week, rushing for 67 yards on seven carries. The Lions plan to split the running back workload between Bell and Abdullah, and use Theo Riddick as their No. 3 back.

Zenner is competing for the fourth running back spot with George Winn and fullback Emil Igwenagu. He said his objective in Thursday's preseason game against Washington is "to be more physical in the passing game, pass protection."

"And also keep my feet a little bit better in the run game," Zenner said. "I felt like could have had quite a bit more yards if I'd have been able to keep my feet after cuts."

NOTE: Offensive lineman Darren Keyton, who injured his knee in last week’s exhibition game against the Jets, cleared waivers and is now on season-ending injured reserve. Keyton played at Central Michigan.

Contact Dave Birkett at dbirkett@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @davebirkett.

Download our Lions Xtra app for free on Apple and Android!