The Detroit Lions are keeping Derrick Barnes in the fold, rewarding the linebacker with a three-year, $25.5 million deal despite his 2024 season being cut short by a knee injury. Barnes suffered a torn MCL and PCL in Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals and missed the remainder of the season. However, the Lions clearly have confidence in his return, guaranteeing $16 million of his new contract, which also includes a $6.32 million signing bonus.
Barnes, a key piece of Detroit’s defense, confirmed on Monday that he is fully cleared and will be ready for the team’s offseason program. He expressed excitement about returning, emphasizing his commitment to finishing “unfinished business” after Detroit’s earlier-than-expected playoff exit.
The linebacker also praised the Lions’ coaching staff, including new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, who was promoted after Aaron Glenn’s departure. Barnes becomes the fourth player from the Brad Holmes-Dan Campbell 2021 draft class to receive an extension, joining Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Alim McNeill.
Detroit is making it clear: they’re committed to rewarding their own as they build toward another deep playoff run.
Derrick Barnes Confirms He’ll Be Ready for Lions’ Offseason Workouts
