Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell missed his third practice of the week on Saturday as he nurses an ankle injury, the team's official website reported.
Bell was officially declared out for Monday night's tussle with the Seattle Seahawks.
It wouldn't be a bad thing for the Lions' offense if Bell sits until he's fully healthy -- he underwent surgeries for his knee and Achilles this offseason.
Bell has 20 carries for 22 yards and a touchdown on the season. Bell's 1.1 yards per carry is the second lowest in the league among players with at least 10 carries. The big back has forced just one missed tackle, via Pro Football Focus.
Ameer Abdullah should earn the majority of snaps with Bell out. The rookie brings the potential to break a big gain that Bell doesn't possess. Preseason hype bunny Zach Zenner would be the candidate to get short-yardage and between-the-tackles runs. Pass-catching back Theo Riddick should see more time as well.
While Bell's story from Wayne State University to the NFL is a great one, at this point the Lions backfield has better options, especially if he isn't healthy.
Some other injury notes for MNF:
1) Marshawn Lynch (hamstring) is questionable for Monday night against the Lions. Defensive tackle Brandon Megane (groin) is also questionable, while linebackers Bobby Wagner (ankle) and K.J. Wright (hip) are probable.
2) Tackling maven DeAndre Levy (hip) practiced for the third-straight day after missing the first three weeks. However, the linebacker is officially doubtful for Sunday against the Seahawks rushing attack.
3) Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew missed practice Saturday and is out.
4) Pass rusher Ziggy Ansah was at practice and is listed as questionable. Ansah left last week's game with a groin injury. Guard Larry Warford and corner Josh Wilson are also questionable.
