Unfortunately for the Detroit Lions, last season ended at Ford Field, following their playoff loss to the Commanders. For the 2025 NFL season, led by Jared Goff, they will aim to improve even further and reach the long-awaited Super Bowl. As of now, the one certainty Dan Campbell has is that they’ve secured the continuity of a player who is expected to be key for what’s to come.
According to the latest information, linebacker Derrick Barnes has agreed to continue with the Detroit franchise and will stay with the Lions for three more years, for a total of $25.5M. In this way, Campbell secures a key piece, who had limited participation last season due to an injury.
“Lions agree to 3-year $25.5M extension for linebacker Derrick Barnes. 16 million of the contract is fully guaranteed at signing,” it was reported through @AllLionsFN.
Barnes joined Detroit in the 2021 draft, selected with the 113th pick in the fourth round, coming from Purdue. Since his arrival in the NFL, the LB has totaled 205 tackles, 12 for loss, and four sacks in four NFL seasons with the Lions.
Derrick Barnes #55 of the Detroit Lions reacts against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Wild Card Playoffs at Ford Field on January 14, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.
Barnes’ injury
Since his arrival in Detroit, Barnes gradually earned the trust not only of his coaching staff and teammates but also of the franchise’s fans. Unfortunately for him, a serious injury sidelined him early in the season, cutting short his chance to showcase his full potential.
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That happened to the linebacker? In Week 3 of last NFL season, during a tough matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, the former Purdue player injured one of his knees, sidelining him early for the rest of the competition.
Despite this, Detroit is confident in Barnes’ full recovery, as they believe he can become a key piece for the team and help Jared Goff achieve the long-awaited Super Bowl.
The linebacker power in Detroit
Barnes’ continuity in Detroit was met with great joy and enthusiasm as part of the roster construction for the upcoming season. The fact that he stays with the franchise confirms the strength of Dan Campbell’s squad in this department.
Former Purdue will continue playing alongside none other than Alex Anzalone and Jack Campbell, a formidable trio that will be the envy of their opponents. Additionally, the roster includes Malcolm Rodriguez, though he is still rehabbing from a torn ACL suffered last season.
