Bengals running back Jeremy Hill is set to hit free agency this offseason, and after a tumultuous year, he doesn't expect to return to Cincinnati.
Been one hell of a ride Cincinnati on to the next chapter pic.twitter.com/L3dL0wvEUD
— Jeremy Hill (@JeremyHill33) January 31, 2018
After playing just seven games, Hill finished 2017 with a career-low 116 yards rushing and zero touchdowns. But he had amassed at least 794 yards and nine touchdowns in each of his first three seasons.
Hill's price went down this year, which could make him an intriguing sleeper in the free-agent market.
Here are three teams that would benefit from Hill's services:
Lions — Not only did Detroit struggle to run on first and second down, it also failed to establish an effective goal-line back. Former second-round pick Ameer Abdullah looks like a third-down back at best, and Theo Riddick is essentially a receiver. The Lions started developing Tion Green a bit late in the year, but they are expected to add a running back to their roster this offseason, and Hill could be a cheap option.
Hill may lack explosion, but the Lions have plenty of quick runners to compliment Hill's more north-to-south approach. The Lions, assuming their offensive line can remain healthy next season, have the offensive weapons to boast an elite offense, but they need a guy who can pick up four yards on first down and punch it in at the goal line.
Giants — Actual Giants fans may roll their eyes at this, because the last thing New York needs is another plodder coming out of the backfield, but Hill has talent. That may not have been on display last season, but he can be a feature back in the right offense.
The Giants, assuming Eli Manning returns to form and Odell Beckham Jr. heals, have enough of an aerial threat to open up lanes for Hill. The Giants have been in desperate need of a running back for a couple years, and Hill could at least become a cheap option to try in camp.
Buccaneers — Stuck in the competitive and ever-changing NFC South, Tampa Bay struggled with consistency this season. Doug Martin never looked right after returning from suspension, and the backups failed to take advantage of their opportunities. Hill would be an instant starter on this team, and he could flourish behind an improving offensive line.
The jury is still out on Jameis Winston. Sometimes he looks like a world beater, but he's injury and turnover prone. Hill could help take pressure off Winston, while resurrecting his career on a young, hungry team.