The Detroit Lions just can’t catch a break when it comes to their defense. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez — who tore his ACL last Thanksgiving — likely won’t return until at least November. That’s the conservative estimate, and it delivers another hit to a linebacker group already dealing with Alex Anzalone’s absence.
Rodriguez’s injury was always expected to be a long recovery, given the timing late in the 2024 season. Still, the news stings, especially as the Lions try to build a defense capable of carrying their momentum from last year’s postseason run.
As it stands, the linebacker depth includes Jack Campbell, Trevor Nowaske, DaRon Gilbert, Grant Stuard, Zach Cunningham, Derrick Barnes, Ezekiel Turner, and Anthony Pittman. Campbell, now entering Year 3, will need to step up in a major way, especially with Anzalone still not reporting to OTAs — though his absence is voluntary, it’s adding fuel to speculation about contract tensions.
The silver lining? Detroit has seen key defensive players like Aidan Hutchinson, Brian Branch, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. return to action at OTAs. But losing Rodriguez for most of the year — possibly longer — puts added pressure on the rest of the unit.
The Lions are still chasing that dream of a fully healthy defense, but as of now, it feels just out of reach.
Lions Hit with Another Injury Blow as Malcolm Rodriguez Set to Miss Extended Time
