Detroit Lions RB Ameer Abdullah likely out for season

Lions running back Ameer Abdullah is expected to miss the rest of the season with a foot injury.

According to ESPN, Abdullah's foot injury, which landed him on injured reserve after Week 2, will not permit him to return this season. Injured reserve rules allow for every team to activate one player who misses at least eight weeks.

Abdullah, the Lions' leading rusher with 101 yards on 18 carries this season, hobbled off the field after a 24-yard run late in the second quarter. He has caught five passes for 57 yards and a touchdown.

Initial X-rays on the foot showed no broken bones but Abdullah went to Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday for a second opinion with specialist Dr. Robert Anderson, according to ESPN.

The 23-year-old Abdullah could return later this season as the franchise can bring back one player off injured reserve. The IR designation means Abdullah will miss at least half the season.

With Abdullah out, Theo Riddick will start at running back and rookie Dwayne Washington will see an expanded role as a backup. Washington had 31 yards on four carries Sunday and serves as the Lions' primary kick returner and short-yardage back.

To take Abdullah's place on the roster, the Lions signed free agent wide receiver Aaron Dobson.

Linebacker DeAndre Levy was inactive for Week 3, a concern for the Lions because he missed all of last season with a hip injury.