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Lions Sign Zonovan Knight to Active Roster

The Lions elevated a running back from their practice squad.

Christian Booher

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The Detroit Lions have elevated running back Zonovan 'Bam' Knight to their active roster, his representing agency announced Tuesday. 

The move comes after starter David Montgomery suffered a thigh bruise in Sunday's loss to the Seattle Seahawks. With only Jahmyr Gibbs and Craig Reynolds currently active, the move allows the Lions to add depth. 

Detroit has not announced any official moves, but the decision to elevate Knight from the practice squad will likely come with corresponding players moving to injured reserve. 

On Monday, NFL media reported that James Houston will likely miss six-to-eight weeks with a fractured ankle. Additionally, C.J. Gardner-Johnson is in danger of missing the season after suffering a torn pec. 

Knight played his rookie campaign last season with the New York Jets. In spot duty, he carried the ball 85 times for 300 yards and a touchdown across seven games. 

He also caught 13 passes for 100 yards, and returned one kick. Knight earned a 71.8 overall offensive grade from Pro Football Focus last season. From Weeks 12-18 of last year, he was second in the league in forced missed tackles. 

He was released by the Jets at the conclusion of the preseason, and quickly found a new home on the Lions' practice squad. 

Knight played collegiately at North Carolina State. He rushed for at least 700 yards in all three of his seasons, scoring a total of 18 touchdowns. 

The Lions will likely deploy Gibbs in an expanded role moving forward at the running back position. Through two games, the rookie has rushed 14 times for 59 yards, while catching nine passes for 57 yards. 

Reynolds saw action after Montgomery's injury on Sunday, rushing three times for seven yards. 

Detroit returns to action Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons. 

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Christian Booher
CHRISTIAN BOOHER

Sports journalist who has covered the Detroit Lions the past three NFL seasons. Christian brings expert analysis, insights and an ability to fairly assess how the team is performing in a tough NFC North division. 

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