Rudi Johnson, days after being released by the Bengals, signs a contract with the Lions. Not a bad spot for the eight-year veteran to land, with only rookie running back Kevin Smith ahead of him. On the other hand, Johnson looked more than a step slow last season and the Bengals would likely have hung on to him if he had regained it this year. Johnson will likely start with a handful of carries as he learns the playbook, but could at least earn 8-12 touches even if Smith impresses and past performance makes him worthy of a fantasy roster spot as an early season flyer.

After signing Johnson, the Lions released the disappointing Tatum Bell, whose star has fallen mightily since his rookie days with the Broncos. The shine on Bell may have taken another hit when he was reportedly involved in a bizarre story involving the swiping of Johnson's bags after he made it to the Lions facility.

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