Detroit Lions

Lions cut loose Joique Bell after injury-plagued fourth season

Published Feb. 16, 2016 5:59 p.m. ET

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The Detroit Lions on Tuesday released running back Joique Bell.

Bell suffered through an injury-plagued 2015 season and was supplanted in the starting lineup by rookie Ameer Abdullah, a second-round draft pick out of Nebraska. Bell also fell behind pass-catching back Theo Riddick and rookie short-yardage specialist Zach Zenner on the depth chart.

The fourth-year running back rushed for 311 yards in 13 games -- both career worsts -- following a solid 2014 campaign in which Bell ran for seven touchdowns and a career-high 860 yards while adding 34 catches and a receiving score.

An undrafted free agent out of Wayne State, Bell had 52 catches and 414 yards rushing in his first season before following that up by hauling in 53 balls while rushing for 650 yards and eight TDs in 2013. 

Releasing Bell will save the Lions $2.5 million in salary, although he will still count $1 million against their cap.

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