Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell underwent procedures on his knee and Achilles this offseason. With the team now starting training camp, news is surfacing that the Lions are somewhat concerned over Bell's health leading up to the preseason. 

Lions head coach Jim Caldwell had this to say about Bell's status on Friday: 

"From a schematic standpoint, he understands and knows how to run the ball, he knows the system," Caldwell said. "We're just majorly concerned right now with, obviously, getting him healthy, and he's well on his way to that."

There's currently no timetable for Bell's return to the field, which should scare the heck out of both the Lions and those who have added him in fantasy teams over the past couple months. 

The larger issue here for Detroit specifically is that it didn't do a whole bunch to address the running back position after losing Reggie Bush to the San Francisco 49ers earlier this offseason. The team did select a smallish back in Ameer Abdullah in the 2015 NFL draft, but there's absolutely no telling whether the 5-foot-9, 209-pound running back can shoulder the load should Bell remained sidelined. 

Without updates regarding Bell's condition, it's highly unlikely he'll see any action during the preseason. This gives Abdullah and fellow youngster Theo Riddick ample opportunities to prove their worth to the coaching staff. In general, the impact of Detroit's running back situation will be felt throughout the entire NFC North this year. Without much balance on offense, Matthew Stafford could very well revert back to his mistake-prone ways, creating further issues on an offense that struggled to average 20 points per game last year. 

From a pure fantasy perspective, there are a few things to look at here. First off, Abdullah immediately becomes a decent play and one of the top rookie running backs. Even if the Lions are forced to sign a veteran like Chris Johnson of Steven Jackson, Abdullah will be given the first crack at the starting job with Bell sidelined. 

Despite his relatively small size, the Nebraska product put up some huge numbers over the past two seasons. During that span, the 22-year-old running back tallied a total of over 3,800 yards and 33 touchdowns. He's a dynamic threat that can take it to the house at any given time. Abdullah's current ADP has him as the 33rd running back off the board—a ranking that will likely edge upwards with the news of Bell's status. Though, at this point, he'd be an absolute coup at that position. 

In terms of Stafford, it's all going to be about waiting and seeing here. With a less-balanced offensive attack, his opportunity to put up huge fantasy numbers increases. And in reality, the Lions could very well throw out the idea of creating said balance if they have to rely on a rookie running back in pass protection. While this may hurt Stafford's overall performance on the field, it could have a positive impact as it relates to fantasy. It could also increase the targets Calvin Johnson, Golden Tate and Eric Ebron receive, all of whom are viable fantasy options right now.