By Sunday 
If there’s one thing Grant Stuard didn’t expect when he arrived in Detroit, it’s how real things get—right from the jump. The newest addition to the Lions’ linebacker room isn’t easing into his new home. Instead, he’s been thrust into a culture where intensity isn’t optional—it’s the standard.
And according to Stuard? That experience has been nothing short of “eye-opening.”
A Culture Built on Grit
The Detroit Lions have developed a reputation over the last few seasons as one of the NFL’s grittiest, most hard-nosed teams. Led by head coach Dan Campbell, the team prides itself on being tougher, more physical, and more connected than the competition.
For newcomers like Stuard—who spent previous seasons with the Colts and Buccaneers—it’s not just a shift in expectations. It’s a total cultural immersion.
“This is the most competitive environment I’ve been in,” Stuard admitted to reporters after OTA workouts. “Every rep matters here. Guys are locked in from start to finish.”
Flying Under the Radar, But Not for Long
Stuard may not be a household name yet, but his energy is impossible to miss. Known for his relentless motor and special teams prowess, the former University of Houston standout has carved out a reputation as a high-octane player who brings maximum effort, every snap.
Detroit saw something in him—and it didn’t take long for Stuard to see something special in return.
“You walk into that locker room, you just feel it,” he said. “There’s a sense of purpose here. Everyone’s dialed in. It’s contagious.”
The Competition Is Fierce—and That’s the Point
The Lions linebacker room is one of the most competitive on the roster. With names like Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, and Malcolm Rodriguez, every rep in practice is a battle. And that’s exactly how Campbell wants it.
For Stuard, that’s not a reason to shrink. It’s motivation.
“Iron sharpens iron,” he said. “I came here to grow, to be challenged, and to help this team win. That’s all that matters.”
Final Word: Welcome to the Jungle
Detroit doesn’t do “soft landings.” But that’s what makes this team dangerous. For guys like Grant Stuard, the eye-opening nature of Lions practices isn’t a problem—it’s a blessing. It’s the sign of a franchise that knows what it wants, knows how to work for it, and is building something very real.
And based on Stuard’s energy and outlook, he’s going to fit right in.