New Lion claims he's healthy | Truth&Rumors

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08:36 AM ET 09.03
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Everybody wants to know about the hamstring. Can it hold up? Will it allow Rudi Johnson to become the power running back that defined him for most of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals? Health is going to define Johnson here as he tries to resurrect his career with the Lions. The Lions are counting on his inside punch and power as they try to revive a running game that has run on fumes the past two seasons, including this exhibition season when they made more of an effort to pound the rock. Johnson began doing his part by hitting the playbook before agreeing to his one-year deal Monday afternoon. He wanted to get a head start because his gut told him he was staying in Detroit when he flew in Sunday night for a visit. He also claims he's healthy and ready to play in Sunday's season opener at Atlanta. Johnson, who turns 29 next month, is expected to back up rookie Kevin Smith, initially.

Detroit News

Rudi Johnson, Andy Lyons/Getty Images

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September 3, 2008 08:37 AM ET

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Could turn out to be a good pickup for the Lions, as long as Matt Millen doesn't do something stupid with the rest of the team. All they need now is a QB.

C-Smith

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September 3, 2008 08:53 AM ET

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This is a good move. I do doubt Millen had anything to do with though.

Blessed Be

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September 3, 2008 09:01 AM ET

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lol, millen has been screwing up so long, people only give him credit for the bad moves now. how does millen stay employed?

as for rudi, hope he has a solid rebound year. probably won't, but i've got my fingers crossed for him.

New Baltimore , NY

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September 3, 2008 09:04 AM ET

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Rudi is a good guy too...never in any trouble...hope he can turn it around.

AFScott

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September 3, 2008 09:07 AM ET

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Prove it!

J. HOVA: BROOKLYN

Brooklyn, NY

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September 3, 2008 09:12 AM ET

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I would welcome a change of scenery from the Bengals ,but to be signed by the Lions this guys a glutton for punishment.I wish him well though.When he's playing well he's fun to watch.Good Luck with that O-Line though.

twelve is next

Toledo, OH

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September 3, 2008 09:16 AM ET

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"I would welcome a change of scenery from the Bengals "

could have been worse for rudi, the packers could have claimed rudi. sticking him in the middle of their transitional mess coming this season.

New Baltimore , NY

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September 3, 2008 09:20 AM ET

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could have been worse for rudi, the packers could have claimed rudi. sticking him in the middle of their transitional mess coming this season.

lol....true that ...but the Lions o-line isn't really made for run blocking.

twelve is next

Toledo, OH

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September 3, 2008 09:21 AM ET

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Apparently, Tatum Bell stole all of Johnsons stuff:
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/09/02/rudis-crazy-day-in-detroit/

I don't know if this story is true, but it sure is funny...

biminator

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September 3, 2008 10:20 AM ET

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I hope that McMillian can teach him that can be a very big task...

GO NOLES....

Indianapolis, IN

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September 3, 2008 10:36 AM ET

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Rudi played soft but now is out to proof he can play.. look for him to play through issues that he would have sit out for last year.. it will be a great pick up and big year for him.. watch and see.. as long as you offer him short term money.. he wil step up.

drj0514

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September 3, 2008 10:44 AM ET

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I can't believe they are letting Tatum Bell go, after he just had the longest carry of his career, when he stole Rudi Johnson's bags and carried them to some chicks house.

trebortsew

Decatur, GA

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September 3, 2008 11:00 AM ET

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is it me, or do the Bengals get more theads than any other team. T & R must be a Cincy fan

MATTUSA

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September 3, 2008 11:01 AM ET

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rudi is done

Willie Bone

Los Angeles , CA

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September 3, 2008 11:25 AM ET

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MATTUSA - you should have been here after the Super Bowl and during Spygate.

C-Smith

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September 3, 2008 11:27 AM ET

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i agree antonio. he is having problems with a hamstring injury. he was having the same problems last year, except it was hit other hamstring.

the lions did a good job not trading for him, gotta give them some credit there.......

Dratcliff

Cincinnati , OH

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September 3, 2008 11:50 AM ET

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If he can come in and split carries with the rookie, it will be fine.

jj730

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September 3, 2008 12:36 PM ET

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Could be a good move for the Lions if Rudi can find his way back to being a productive back. The Lions should look to improve their front office first though.