By Moses Joshua 
Malcolm Rodriguez nears long-awaited comeback as Detroit prepares for a critical NFC North push
The Detroit Lions entered their Week 8 bye riding high after a commanding 24–9 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — a game that showcased the resilience of a defense stretched thin by injuries and suspensions. Now, as the team prepares for the second half of the season, a familiar and long-missed name is inching closer to rejoining the mix: linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez.
Dan Campbell Confirms Rodriguez’s Return Timeline
Head coach Dan Campbell hinted before the bye that the Lions could soon open Rodriguez’s 21-day practice window, marking his first steps toward an official return to the field.
“Yeah, we’re hoping after the bye (to start Rodriguez’s 21-day return window), we can start rolling him out there a little bit,” Campbell said, signaling optimism about the 24-year-old’s progress.
Rodriguez, who suffered a torn ACL last Thanksgiving, underwent a cleanup procedure earlier this offseason to remove scar tissue from his right knee. Despite the setback, the recovery process has stayed on schedule — and now, nearly a year later, his long-awaited comeback is finally in sight.
“I Want to Go Full Force” — Rodriguez Ready to Reignite
If there’s any hesitation about easing him back, it’s not coming from Rodriguez himself. The fiery fourth-year linebacker told the Detroit Free Press he’s eager to be thrown “into the fire” rather than slowly ramping up.
“I’m ready for it,” Rodriguez said. “It’s one of those things where I want to get thrown into the fire and see what it does. I don’t want to just ease into it, I kind of want to go full force.”
Rodriguez has been cleared for everything except football contact for over a month, staying active in workouts and preparation as he eyes his return. His work ethic and toughness have never been in question — traits that made him a fan favorite and a key piece of Detroit’s gritty defensive identity.
A Quiet But Valuable Addition to Detroit’s Defense
While the Lions’ linebacker trio of Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, and Derrick Barnes has been outstanding — ranking among the league’s best by Pro Football Focus grades — Rodriguez’s return still matters. His speed, tackling efficiency, and high football IQ make him a versatile depth option and a reliable contributor on special teams.
Before his injury last season, Rodriguez recorded 43 tackles and two sacks in 10 games, proving his ability to step up when called upon. As the Lions gear up for a crucial NFC North stretch, his presence could quietly stabilize a defense that’s endured more than its share of injuries.
The Lions have historically taken a patient approach with players returning from major injuries — and Rodriguez will likely be no exception. Still, the intensity in his voice suggests he’s eager to make an immediate impact once cleared.
For Detroit, getting a healthy “Rodrigo” back could be the subtle spark that keeps the defense sharp heading into the playoff push.