The Facts: The Lions plunged to 28th in rushing last season, then cut one-time starting tailback Reggie Bush. Clearly they have a need at the position. And Jim Caldwell expects Riddick to be a part of the solution. "We try and give (the ball) to the guys who are going to do something with it, and I think he's going to be one of those guys who's going to force us to give him the ball more," Caldwell said last week at the NFL owners meetings. "I think you're really going to see him come along."

Diehards Line: Riddick seemed like a better fit the New Orleans-style system the new coaching staff installed last season. But once the season began, it quickly became obvious Riddick remained the team's third option behind Bush and Joique Bell. He had one touch each of the first two weeks, and seven in the first five weeks combined. Riddick's playing time eventually expanded in October and November, when Bush was slowed by a stubborn ankle injury. And he delivered whenever called upon. But once Bush returned from injury, Riddick immediately faded from the game plan. He finished the season with just 20 carries for 51 yards, plus 34 catches for 316 yards and four touchdowns. Caldwell expects Riddick's role to grow next season, though MLive.com's Kyle Meinke notes that could depend on what kind of tailback the team adds in April's draft. As Meinke summed up: "Riddick is a plus-plus pass catcher out of the backfield, but hasn't shown any kind of chops yet on the ground -- yet."