Denver Broncos running back Theo Riddick told reporters on Sunday at the team's training camp that he was blindsided by the Detroit Lions releasing him, but it sparked a fire in the 28-year-old.
Via Mike Klis of 9News on Twitter:
“I was (blindsided) to be honest with you, but it's the name of the game. It was no shock to me but it sparked a fire in me. And it's lit.”
The 5-foot-9, 200-pound RB spent six seasons with the Lions, sharing snaps both in the backfield and as a wideout. Detroit had drafted Riddick in the sixth round of the 2013 NFL Draft after four collegiate seasons at Notre Dame.
Riddick has rushed for 1,023 career yards in six years in the league, scoring five touchdowns and averaging 3.6 yards per carry in 84 games and 19 starts. He was converted to a wide receiver during the 2019 season with the Lions, making 61 receptions for 384 yards and 6.3 yards per reception.
The Lions signed free agent RB C.J. Anderson over the offseason to a one-year deal and inked rookie back Ty Johnson, who they drafted in the sixth round of the 2019 class.
Detroit re-signed former undrafted free agent Zach Zenner, who's been with the franchise since 2015, and also feature on their roster second-year back Kerryon Johnson, taken by the Motor City in the second round of the 2018 draft. Additionally, Detroit has a new running backs coach in Kyle Caskey.
Riddick will likely compete for playing time in the Broncos' camp with Devontae Booker, Royce Freeman, and Pro-Bowler Phillip Lindsay.
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