Will Sherwood Be The Spark For The Detroit Lions Defense In 2025?
Potential Free Agent Linebacker Jamien Sherwood A Perfect Fit
As NFL free agency approaches, the Detroit Lions face a critical need at linebacker after a 2024 season marred by injuries and 2025 full of expiring contracts.
Injuries Overtake A Once Dominating Defense
The linebacker corps, once a position of depth, was decimated by injuries, forcing the Lions to field 15 different players at the position. The season's challenges began in Week 3 when Derrick Barnes suffered a season-ending knee injury. By Week 10, Alex Anzalone broke his forearm, sidelining him for six games, and Malcolm Rodriguez tore his ACL in Week 11. Veteran Jalen Reeves-Maybin (released 2025) also missed significant time with a neck injury.
Jack Campbell was the lone starting linebacker on the field, he not only played every game but also elevated his performance, becoming a defensive anchor and leader. Despite these efforts, the Lions' defense struggled, particularly against screens and isolation plays, exposing the need for reinforcem…
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