Ezekiel Turner Returns to Bolster Depth and Special Teams Unit

The Detroit Lions continue to reinforce their linebacker unit, re-signing special teams ace Ezekiel Turner to a one-year deal. This move comes on the heels of new contracts for Derrick Barnes and Anthony Pittman, signaling the team’s commitment to maintaining a deep and versatile linebacking corps.

Turner’s Special Teams Value

Turner joined the Lions midway through the 2024 season, initially as a depth piece, but quickly earned praise from special teams coordinator Dave Fipp. His reputation as a reliable and intelligent player made an immediate impact.

“He’s super smart and intelligent, I got a lot of confidence and faith and trust in him already in a very short period of time,” Fipp said. “The special teams coach from Arizona sent me a text message and said, ‘I don’t know if I trust another guy more than I trust him.’ And that’s a guy I respect quite a bit. So, anyway, yeah, we feel good about him.”

Turner played 176 special teams snaps in just nine games for Detroit, proving to be a valuable contributor in kick and punt coverage.

Defensive Contributions and Key Play Against Green Bay

Although Turner primarily played on special teams, injuries forced the Lions to use him on defense at times. While he had some struggles adjusting, he made a season-defining play in a crucial game against the Green Bay Packers. Late in the contest, Turner chased down quarterback Jordan Love, forcing a field goal attempt. Detroit capitalized on the next possession to secure the win.

What Turner’s Signing Means for Detroit’s Linebacker Room

Turner’s return is particularly interesting given that the Lions are reportedly set to release Jalen Reeves-Maybin, who has been a core special teams player for years. With Turner possessing a similar skill set, his presence could be viewed as a cost-effective replacement.

With his signing, Detroit now has eight linebackers under contract for the 2025 season:

• Alex Anzalone
• Jack Campbell
• Derrick Barnes
• Malcolm Rodriguez
• Anthony Pittman
• Ezekiel Turner
• Abraham Beauplan
• DaRon Gilbert

While Turner may not play a significant role on defense, his return ensures that Detroit’s special teams unit remains one of the strongest in the league.