Lions Target Kareem Hunt
Detroit Lions Host Veteran Running Back Kareem Hunt for Free-Agent Visit
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Key Points
1
In 2025 with the Chiefs, Kareem Hunt had 18 receptions for 143 yards plus a receiving TD, illustrating he can contribute as a versatile back in addition to his rushing workload.
2
The Lions signed running back Roydell Williams one day before Hunt visited, underscoring an aggressive, multi-pronged approach to shoring up the backfield ahead of the season.
3
Detroit plans to feature Jahmyr Gibbs as the centerpiece in 2026 after awarding him a monster contract extension, with Hunt expected to serve as a veteran depth option behind the rookie star.
4
The Lions have already added Trayveon Williams as another veteran/potential depth piece, signaling ongoing turnover and testing of options at running back beyond Hunt.
The Detroit Lions hosted veteran running back Kareem Hunt for a free-agent visit as injuries pile up in the backfield. Reuters reported Hunt, 31, rushed for 611 yards and eight touchdowns for Kansas City last season and is now being evaluated to provide depth behind star Jahmyr Gibbs. The move signals Detroit's aggressive effort to stabilize the position ahead of the regular season.
Multiple backup rushers are sidelined with injuries, including Isiah Pacheco (MCL sprain), Sione Vaki, Jabari Small (concussion protocol), and Raheem Blackshear (injured reserve). Hunt would reunite Detroit with Pacheco, a fellow ex-Chiefs star, adding veteran experience and another proven runner to the backfield mix.
Hunt's Track Record as Versatile Weapon
Kareem Hunt brings nine NFL seasons of production to Detroit. In 2025, he rushed 163 times for 611 yards and eight touchdowns while adding 18 receptions for 143 yards and a receiving TD, per Reuters. That versatility—combining power on the ground with pass-catching ability—makes him valuable insurance if injuries linger.
Across his career, Hunt has accumulated 5,775 rushing yards and 55 rushing touchdowns. At 31, he still plays at a physical, productive level and understands the offensive system after spending 2025 in Kansas City under the same coaches now with Detroit.
Detroit's Multi-Pronged Backfield Overhaul
The Lions aren't waiting to see how injuries shake out. KAT Country 98.9 reported the team signed running back Roydell Williams just one day before Hunt's visit. Trayveon Williams was also added as another veteran depth option, showing Detroit is testing multiple solutions.
This aggressive approach reflects urgency. Backup injuries have created a gap between Gibbs and available options. Adding Hunt, Williams, and other veterans ensures the Lions have proven bodies ready if Week 1 arrives with the backfield still banged up.
Gibbs Locked In as Long-Term Centerpiece
Jahmyr Gibbs remains Detroit's featured back after signing a major contract extension. The team plans to build around him in 2026 and beyond. Hunt would slot in as depth and emergency insurance—a veteran mentor and proven backup who can spell Gibbs or step up if forced.
No deal has been announced yet. But the visit demonstrates Detroit's willingness to explore proven talent to protect itself from continued injury setbacks. Whether Hunt signs or not, the Lions are signaling they won't let backfield depth issues drift into the season.
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