Rookie RB Aaron Brown Proves Worth in Detroit Lions Debut

The NFL preseason is not about wins and losses, it's about position battles, rookies, and overlooked talent taking their shot at a roster spot. Rookie running back Aaron Brown, a 6th round pick out of TCU, is exactly the kind of player that the NFL preseason benefits.

Aaron Brown made the most of his touches in the Detroit Lions first preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons on August 15th. Brown had 6 carries for 47 yards and a touchdown, and 2 receptions for 51 yards and a touchdown. Brown's first score was in the third quarter on a 32 yard run. The play looked as it was for Brown to hit the middle but when he saw an opening outside he took advantage and was untouched. Brown raised his hand as if he had scored the winning touchdown in a playoff game and then jumped into the crowd. Brown's speed and enthusiasm made me anxious to see him get a few more carries.

Aaron Brown continued to make a boring preseason game in an empty stadium thrilling as he caught a screen pass from Drew Stanton with just over 2 minutes left in the game. The Lions were down 26-17 and were at the Falcons 45 yard line. Brown needed to only make a couple moves before his speed did the rest to lead him into the endzone. As soon as Brown entered the endzone he displayed his acrobatics by completing a somersault followed by a back flip. The coaches probably weren't happy with the display or the penalty that followed, but from a fans perspective it was a site to see.

Brown's speed has never been a question throughout his college career, but NFL future has been questioned due to his incapability to run between the tackles. Brown's first instinct is to hit the outside, which he is very good at, but it becomes very predictable. Brown is my favorite Detroit Lion after only one preseason game. Brown is in a battle for the Lions third running back spot with Aveion Cason, as Kevin Smith and Maurice Morris already have the starting and backup spots filled. Only time will tell, but I like Brown's chances at earning a roster spot.