Lions RB Smith returns on one-year deal

Mar 27, 2012 - 6:47 PM Allen Park, MI (Sports Network) - The Detroit Lions re-signed running back Kevin Smith to a one-year contract on Tuesday.

"Thanks for all the support from family, friends, fans feels good to be back in Detroit," Smith said on his Twitter account. "I'm glad the organization feels I can help this team take the next step. Look forward to the next step in my career. Be blessed people thanks again."

The 25-year-old played in seven games -- four starts -- for the Lions in 2011, leading the team with four rushing touchdowns, while rushing for 356 yards and catching 22 passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns.

Smith started in 15 games over his first two seasons as a Lion, but tore his ACL late in the 2009 campaign and has started in just four games over the past two years.

The Lions drafted Smith in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft and the Central Florida product has spent his entire four-year career in the Motor City, rushing for 2,212 yards and scoring 16 touchdowns on the ground.