Lions Release CJ Anderson and Claim Ex-Giants RB Paul Perkins

CJ Anderson got himself back on NFL radars after his impressive second half of the season with the Los Angeles Rams in 2018. Unfortunately, his incredible play didn't last into the 2019 campaign.

As a result of the decrease in production, Anderson has been released by the Detroit Lions after signing with them in the offseason.

The Lions claimed RB Paul Perkins off of waivers and cut veteran CJ Anderson.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 17, 2019

In order to replace Anderson, the Lions are taking a flyer on Paul Perkins, claiming the running back after his release from the New York Giants on Monday.

In two games for Detroit, Anderson logged 16 carries for 43 yards. He was particularly disappointing in Week 2 when he rushed five times for just eight yards.

Those numbers are a far cry from the 299 yards and two touchdowns he scored in two regular-season games for L.A. last year.

The #Lions claimed RB Paul Perkins off waivers from the #Giants and released C.J. Anderson.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 17, 2019

As for Perkins, the 24-year-old hasn't carried the ball in a regular-season game since 2017. In his career, the former UCLA standout has 153 carries for 546 yards and has yet to find the end zone.

The release of Anderson could also bode well for young running back Kerryon Johnson, who could stand to see an increased workload going forward.