In one season, Detroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes managed to go from a promising co-star next to Jack Campbell, to a defender in need of another big year to prove that his extension from the Lions was well-earned.
Barnes had stacked up 81 total tackles in 2023 for the Lions, in addition to an efficient 11.5 stuffs. But, he never looked comfortable after suffering an injury in 2024 which forced him to miss all but three games that season, and which led to an OK bounce back season in 2025. He had four sacks and 78 total tackles last year.
With the addition of rookie Jimmy Rolder to the mix, as well as the return of Malcolm Rodriguez 100% healthy to the Lions roster, Barnes has some competition on his hands for the role of starting LB next to Campbell and, likely, Rodriguez. And, with Damone Clark nipping at his heels, Barnes might need to put even more gas in his tank ahead of July 28, which is when veterans report for Lions training camp.
Barnes needs a huge training camp to fend off competition
As of now, Barnes is listed as the Lions' starting WILL linebacker, with Campbell as their MIKE and Rodriguez as their SAM. Barnes, though, is much better as a SAM, as he has a nose for the pocket and didn't have much success in coverage in 2025. He did have one pick against the Dallas Cowboys in 2025, though.
Damone Clark is a slightly better bet as a linebacker in coverage, but it does seem like Clark might've been brought into the fold for the Lions as a Grant Stuard replacement on special teams. Still, he's got some solid tape from recent seasons, especially with the Cowboys, so that's something to worry about if you're Barnes.
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Of course, Barnes is a natural edge rusher, coming out of college as one and landing with the Lions essentially without a position. So, to see him go from a bit of a project on defense to a linebacker Detroit is looking for leadership from is a sign of major improvement on Barnes' end. He just has to remain consistent, which he struggled with in 2025.
While Barnes is listed as a WILL on their depth chart, it's more likely that he slides back into the SAM role for Detroit, as his run defense and pass rushing skills are too valuable to let go to waste in pass coverage. He could thrive once again, and similarly to how he did in 2023, if placed back at this spot for this season.
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