By Sunday 
After months of rehab, sweat, and sheer determination, Detroit Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez is on the verge of making his long-awaited comeback — and fans can’t wait to see him back in blue and silver.
The heart and grit that made Rodriguez a breakout star on Hard Knocks are the same qualities driving his journey back to the field. After suffering a torn ACL in Week 13 of the 2023 season, the former sixth-round pick has been laser-focused on recovery. Now, as reports swirl that he’s targeting Week 11’s Sunday Night Football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, Lions Nation is buzzing with excitement.
“The Lions are expecting LB Malcolm Rodriguez to make his season debut in Week 11,” Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz shared, confirming what fans had been hoping to hear since preseason.
For a team that thrives on energy and toughness — two things Rodriguez brings in spades — this return could be just the emotional lift Detroit needs as the season heats up. Even if he doesn’t step immediately into a starting role, his presence alone in the locker room and on special teams could reignite the fire that head coach Dan Campbell loves to see.
Rodriguez, undersized but fearless, became a fan favorite almost instantly after his rookie debut. His relentless motor, crisp tackling, and old-school linebacker mentality earned him both respect and affection from fans who adore Detroit’s no-nonsense style.
As Week 11 approaches, the storyline writes itself: a comeback under the primetime lights, against one of the NFC’s toughest teams. It’s not just a return — it’s a statement.
And if you know Malcolm Rodriguez, you know he’s not coming back to just “ease in.” He’s coming back to make noise.