5 NFL Running Backs Who Will Improve In 2017 (And 5 Who Won't)

For the past few years, the Detroit Lions have struggled to bring a modicum of balance to their pass happy offense. None of the running backs they've brought in to remedy this issue have worked out, but Ameer Abdullah could finally be the one to turn the tide.

Abdullah has been on the team since 2015, working mostly as a return specialist as a rookie and missing almost the entire 2016 season with a foot injury. However, 2017 will be his breakout campaign.

Abdullah has all the skills needed to be Detroit's premiere running back. He's relatively young, he's quick as hell, and he's evasive. He can run up the middle for gains and he can fake out defenders if he gets down field.

To their credit, the Lions have tried hard to improve their offensive line to better facilitate a run game, drafting linemen high and adding to the o-line in free agency. If Abdullah can stay healthy and the o-line can protect him, he'll use his speed and significant skill to set fire to defenses across the league.