The Detroit Lions' defense was the star of Monday night’s win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and has taken a step forward in Kelvin Sheppard’s first year as defensive coordinator. While Sheppard’s rise could have him pursuing a head coaching opportunity next season, it also bodes well for a Lions defense that could be much stronger than it was at this time one year ago.
A return to health has been one of Detroit’s biggest reasons for success, and the Lions have slowly taken steps, including Alim McNeill’s return from a torn ACL on Monday night. But more reinforcements could be on the way as Lions coach Dan Campbell told reporters, including Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, that he expects linebacker Malcolm Rodruguez could return to practice shortly after the bye.
Lions LB Malcolm Rodriguez Nears Return After ACL Tear
A sixth-round pick by the Lions in the 2022 draft, the Oklahoma State product quickly became a favorite of the fans and his defensive coordinator for his aggressive playing style as a rookie. He made 87 total tackles with eight tackles for loss and a sack while starting 15 games in 2022, but slid into a reserve role after the Lions used a first-round pick on Jack Campbell in 2023.
Despite the demotion, Rodriguez continued to play a big role on special teams in 2023, logging an 80.5 grade on 354 snaps according to Pro Football Focus. He continued in that reserve role in 2024 before Alex Anzalone’s injury and logged 43 tackles with two tackles for loss and a pair of interceptions before tearing his ACL in a Thanksgiving victory over the Chicago Bears.
With Derrick Barnes also seizing a key role, it was uncertain where Rodriguez would fit in when he returned to the field. But it seems like his return could make the Lions a deeper group at linebacker with Campbell (427), Anzalone (427), and Derrick Barnes (382) combining for 98% of the snaps at the position this season.
Rodriguez should also provide a boost on special teams, as Ty Summers (90.5) is the only player with a PFF grade over 80 on special teams this season. But wherever that role is, Rodriguez will be eager to make the Lions' defense and special teams units even better than they were before the bye.