Detroit Lions release RB Joique Bell

Joique Bell's four-year run with Detroit Lions apparently came to an end on Tuesday.

The Lions released the veteran running back who went to college in Detroit at Division II Wayne State and proved to be a solid and versatile NFL contributor before injuries took their toll in 2015.

Last season, the 29-year-old Bell averaged just 3.45 yards per rush, carrying the ball only 90 times for 311 yards, and added 22 receptions for 286 yards.

Ameer Abdullah, Theo Riddick and Zach Zenner handled most of the carries in the Detroit offense and are expected to battle next year for playing time.

During the 2012 season in Bell's first extending playing time, he averaged 5.0 yards per carry while seeing action in all 16 games, finishing with 414 yards rushing and three touchdowns. He led the Lions in rushing in 2014 with 860 yards on 223 carries and seven touchdowns.

In 2012 and 2013, Bell also contributed 52 and 53 receptions, respectively, out of the backfield.