Introduction
Dion Lewis has carved out a unique and impressive niche in the NFL as a versatile running back. Known for his agility, speed, and ability to contribute both in rushing and receiving, Lewis has made a significant impact on every team he has played for. From his early days as an undrafted free agent to his standout performances in high-stakes playoff games, Lewis's journey is a testament to his hard work and determination.
In this article, we will explore Dion Lewis's NFL career statistics by year, highlight his most notable achievements, and break down his performance metrics. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of Lewis's contributions to the game, his career milestones, and what makes him a standout player in NFL history.
Dion Lewis Career Overview
Early Career and Entry into the NFL
- Draft Status: Dion Lewis was not selected in the 2011 NFL Draft, but he quickly signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent.
- Position: Running back
- Teams: Philadelphia Eagles (2011-2012), New England Patriots (2015-2017), Tennessee Titans (2018), and New York Giants (2020).
Key Attributes
- Size: 5’8” and 195 pounds
- Playing Style: Known for his agility, quick cuts, and reliable hands, which made him a dual-threat option in both the running and passing games.
Dion Lewis NFL Career Statistics by Year
Diving into Dion Lewis's rushing and receiving stats offers insight into his overall impact in the league. Below is a yearly breakdown of his performance:
| Year | Team | Rushing Yards | Rushing Touchdowns | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Receiving Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Philadelphia Eagles | 102 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2012 | Philadelphia Eagles | 58 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2015 | New England Patriots | 49 | 0 | 36 | 388 | 0 |
| 2016 | New England Patriots | 897 | 6 | 32 | 288 | 1 |
| 2017 | New England Patriots | 896 | 6 | 32 | 212 | 0 |
| 2018 | Tennessee Titans | 517 | 1 | 35 | 214 | 1 |
| 2020 | New York Giants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Key Observations
- Breakout Year: 2016 was a standout year for Lewis, where he rushed for 897 yards and scored 6 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a primary back.
- Receiving Prowess: Throughout his career, Lewis demonstrated consistent receiving ability, especially during his time with the Patriots, where he averaged over 30 receptions per season.
Dion Lewis Career Performance Breakdown
Rushing Performance
- Total Rushing Yards: 2,619
- Total Rushing Touchdowns: 13
- Yards per Carry: 4.4
Lewis’s rushing statistics reflect his ability to gain consistent yardage while maintaining a solid yards-per-carry average, indicating his effectiveness as a runner.
Receiving Performance
- Total Receptions: 103
- Total Receiving Yards: 1,102
- Receiving Touchdowns: 2
Lewis’s receiving stats highlight his versatility as a dual-threat player. With over 1,100 receiving yards, he proved to be a reliable option out of the backfield.
Notable Milestones and Highlights
- Super Bowl LI Champion: Lewis was part of the New England Patriots team that made history by overcoming a 28-3 deficit to defeat the Atlanta Falcons, marking one of the most memorable moments in NFL history.
- Playoff Performances: Lewis had several key contributions in the playoffs, including crucial receptions and rushing yards that helped propel his teams forward.
Dion Lewis Career Highlights and Stats
Here are some of the most noteworthy highlights of Lewis's career:
- Career High Rushing Games: In 2016, Lewis had five games where he rushed for over 100 yards.
- Receiving Game Impact: Lewis’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield made him a valuable asset, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Versatile Skill Set: His unique combination of speed, agility, and receiving skills allowed him to excel in multiple roles, including special teams.
Dion Lewis Statistics and Milestones
Dion Lewis's career is marked by significant milestones that underscore his impact on the field:
- Total Touchdowns: 15 (combined rushing and receiving)
- Super Bowl Appearances: 2 (with the Patriots)
- Key Games: Lewis had standout performances against several top-tier teams, often playing a critical role in close games.
Conclusion
Dion Lewis’s journey through the NFL is a compelling story of resilience and versatility. From his early days as an undrafted free agent to becoming a valuable contributor on championship teams, Lewis has established himself as a highly skilled running back. His career statistics reflect not just his talent but also his ability to adapt and excel in different roles.
As we look back at Dion Lewis's career highlights and stats, it’s clear that he has left an indelible mark on the game of football. Whether you are a fan of the game or just learning about its history, Lewis’s story serves as an inspiring example of what hard work and determination can achieve in professional sports. As he moves into this next chapter of life post-football, his legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes.
