Detroit Lions

Theo Riddick sets Lions franchise record for receiving yards by a RB

Published Dec. 27, 2015 5:35 p.m. ET

foxsports

Theo Riddick is one of the Detroit Lions' most lethal offensive weapons at running back, but he does most of his damage after catching passes rather than receiving handoffs.

The shifty back caught seven passes for 63 yards against the San Francisco 49ers in a 32-17 win on Sunday. That brought his season total up to 668 receiving yards -- a Lions franchise record by a running back.

Via Lions senior writer Tim Twentyman:

Riddick, a sixth-round draft pick in 2013, is so successful releasing out of the backfield because he often finds himself in a mismatch against a less athletic linebacker. The third-year pro has become one of quarterback Matthew Stafford's favorite targets with 76 receptions this season (only Golden Tate and Calvin Johnson have more). Three of those receptions have gone for touchdowns.

Although Riddick is super-productive as a pass-catcher, he's rarely used like a traditional running back. He has only recorded 41 rushing attempts for 129 yards in 2015.

Right now there aren't many backs like Riddick, but many teams around the NFL are bound to take note of his success and want someone to fill that role for them in the future.