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Jacob Saylors earns backup running back role for Detroit Lions

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 2:31 PM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Jacob Saylors earns backup running back role for Detroit Lions

Summary

The Detroit Lions have designated Jacob Saylors as the primary backup running back behind Jahmyr Gibbs for the upcoming season. This depth chart adjustment follows Isiah Pacheco being placed on injured reserve to start the year. Pacheco, who dealt with foot and back injuries during training camp, is expected to miss at least the first four games. Saylors, a former undrafted free agent who spent time on several practice squads, gained the coaching staff’s confidence after leading the team in preseason rushing with 187 yards on 31 carries. Analysts suggest that Saylors could maintain a significant role in the offensive rotation if he continues to perform during Pacheco’s absence.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Isiah Pacheco begins the season on injured reserve with foot and back injuries.
•Jacob Saylors led the Lions with 31 carries for 187 yards during the preseason.
•The Lions expect Pacheco to miss at least the first four games of the regular season.
•Saylors moved from a fringe roster player to the backup role after productive preseason play.

Latest Updates

2:31 PMYahoo Sports — Lions Backup Predicted to Steal Veteran’s Job

What they're saying

"
The Detroit Lions traded running back David Montgomery this offseason, and his replacement might not be the person you think it is. While the expectation was that Isiah Pacheco would be the Lions’ backup, he is currently injured, and Jacob Saylors is going to hold down the backup job. Mike Payton of A to Z […] The post Lions Backup Predicted to Steal Veteran’s Job appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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