By Mummy Grace 
Despite last season’s MCL and PCL tear, Detroit rewarded Barnes with a three-year, $24 million extension, including $16 million guaranteed—a commitment that raised a few eyebrows. But as training camp approaches, Barnes is proving the decision was sound .
Here’s why Barnes is already delivering:
He plays the SAM linebacker role the way it’s meant to be played—rushing the passer, setting edges in run defense, and dropping into coverage. That kind of three-down versatility is incredibly rare .
Barnes’ consistent growth stands out: from 67 tackles and two sacks as a rookie to 81 tackles, five TFLs, a sack, and a forced fumble in 2023. His Pro Football Focus grade jumped from 30.1 to 71.8 before his injury, spotlighting major development .
With Malcolm Rodriguez and Alex Anzalone both rehabbing or entering final contract years, Barnes is poised to start alongside Jack Campbell, taking on a bigger role and further validating Detroit’s investment .
Head coach Dan Campbell and defensive staff see the same on-field impact. As longtime linebacker coach David Corrao explained, Barnes’ ability to handle multiple assignments—from line-of-scrimmage play to slot coverage—is a game-changing asset .
So far, the move looks smart. The Lions have a stacked defense, and Barnes is shaping up to be its engine. If he stays healthy and continues this trajectory, that $24 million could be the best cap investment Detroit made all offseason.