Lions Teammates Celebrate Derrick Barnes’ Contract Extension
The Detroit Lions are keeping Derrick Barnes around for the long haul, agreeing to a three-year contract extension with the rising linebacker. Since being drafted in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Barnes has steadily improved each season, earning the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates.
After news of his deal broke, several Lions players took to social media to congratulate him. Alex Anzalone, one of Barnes’ closest friends on the team, shared his excitement on both Twitter and Instagram. Defensive teammates Terrion Arnold, Kerby Joseph, and Mekhi Wingo also showed their support online. Even Julian Okwara, a former Lions linebacker, joined in to celebrate.
Barnes himself acknowledged the moment by posting DJ Khaled’s “GOD DID” on Instagram, signaling his gratitude and confidence for the years ahead.
The Lions haven’t made the deal official yet, but it’s clear the locker room is fired up about keeping Barnes in Detroit. The young linebacker has been a key part of the defense’s growth, and now he has a chance to build on his success in 2025 and beyond.
