C.J. Spiller

Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller is one of the top running backs available in free agency.

(AP File Photo)

The Detroit Lions are in the market for a running back after releasing Reggie Bush earlier this offseason, and while most expect the team to fill the roster hole via the draft, Yahoo is reporting the team has interest in free agent C.J. Spiller.

Spiller, 27, possess a skill the Lions lack in their current rotation, a home-run threat with elite speed. He's had 10 carries of 40 or more yard in the past three seasons. The Lions, as a team, have had two during the same stretch.

Overall, in five seasons with the Buffalo Bills, the former first-round pick averaged an impressive 5.0 yards per carry.

Spiller's best campaign came in 2012, when he gained more than 1,700 yards from scrimmage and averaged 6.0 yards per carry, second only to Washington quarterback Robert Griffin III. His position coach that season was Curtis Modkins, who currently serves in the same role with the Lions.

In addition to offering game-breaking ability out of the backfield, Spiller is also an accomplished return man. He's averaged 12.1 yards on punts and 24.4 yards on kickoffs during his career.

The downside is durability concerns. He missed six games last season with a broken collarbone. Hamstring and ankle injuries have cost him games earlier in his career.

It's unknown how big of a contract the explosive back will command on the open market, but it's been reported Spiller turned down a deal from the Bills averaging $4.5 million per season. Regardless, the Lions have enough cap space to be in the mix, no matter what defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh's decides to do.

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