Grant Stuard Chooses Culture and Competition Over Easy Playing Time

The Detroit Lions have added another gritty competitor to their roster, signing linebacker Grant Stuard to a one-year deal. While Stuard had opportunities with teams that offered clearer paths to playing time, he prioritized Detroit’s culture, coaching, and the chance to contribute to a true contender.

Stuard’s Decision: Culture Over Comfort

Despite a crowded linebacker room in Detroit, Stuard saw an opportunity to grow and compete at the highest level. He cited the Lions’ well-established culture and coaching staff as key reasons for his decision.

“Culture, immediately,” Stuard said when asked why he chose Detroit. “From watching Detroit, playing against them, my family rooting for them forever since Campbell’s been here. I feel like I knew a lot about them.”

Stuard’s reputation as a hard worker aligns perfectly with Detroit’s blue-collar mentality. After playing in 33 games over the past two seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, primarily as a special teams ace, he got his first taste of significant defensive action in 2023.

Lions’ Deep Linebacker Room Won’t Deter Stuard

Detroit boasts an already solid linebacker corps led by veteran Alex Anzalone and 2023 first-round pick Jack Campbell. Derrick Barnes recently secured a three-year, $25.5 million extension, while Malcolm Rodriguez and Anthony Pittman add further depth.

Stuard, however, welcomes the challenge, believing Detroit offers the best environment for him to grow as a player.

“I think it’s also clear from a demonstration standpoint with Detroit that they’re going to play the best 11 in the best situation,” he explained.

Even if defensive snaps are limited, Stuard embraces the opportunity to refine his craft while contributing on special teams, where he has logged over 1,200 snaps in four seasons.

Eager to Learn, Ready to Contribute

Stuard credits his time learning from Zaire Franklin in Indianapolis as the most significant period of growth in his career. Now, he looks forward to working alongside Detroit’s established linebackers, including reuniting with Malcolm Rodriguez, whom he played with at the Senior Bowl.

The linebacker could have sought a more immediate role elsewhere, but his decision to join Detroit underscores his belief in hard work, team culture, and long-term development.

“I’m just excited about adding value here, about improving, about learning from some guys who are established,” Stuard said.

With his high-energy playstyle and relentless work ethic, Stuard fits the mold of a Lions player perfectly—and he’s ready to prove his worth, no matter how tough the competition may be.