The Lions’ Biggest Weakness? Let’s Talk About It
A few days back, we talked about what makes this Lions roster special. The receiving corps with a deadly one-two duo at wide receiver and a top-five tight end. A quarterback in Jared Goff who has been statistically a top-five quarterback for the past four years. An offensive line that might be getting back to its level of dominance.
Now it’s time for the harder conversation. Every roster has holes, even the good ones. Detroit went into the season with a surprisingly high amount of needs, and with limited resources both in the draft and free agency, there was no way they’d be able to fill them all.
So here’s the question: What’s the Lions’ biggest weakness heading into OTAs?
The Linebacker Problem
Look, I’m going to be honest here. It’s the linebacking corps, and it’s not particularly close.
Obviously, the loss of Alex Anzalone looms large, and the only additions the Lions have made thus far are free agent signing Damone Clark and fourth-round pick Jimmy Rolder. While both could contribute on special teams and defensive depth in a pinch, neither screams “starter” right now.
Obviously, Jack Campbell is the exception. He’s playing at an All-Pro level, and he’s the quarterback of the defense entering his fourth year. But outside of him, there are questions abound.
While the coaching staff is certainly high on Derrick Barnes, he’s yet to really settle into a role where he’s thrived at. He was pegged as an ideal SAM linebacker last year, but struggled to make a consistent impact in most phases of the game. If they keep him there in 2026, will his game take a jump? Or if they move him to more of a WILL linebacker role, would that fit his skillset a little better? Those are questions without definitive answers.
Outside of that, Malcolm Rodriguez figures to be the current LB3 on this team. And while he has played well in spurts, there’s also a reason why he hasn’t been considered a true starter since his rookie season. He’s a great primary backup and special teamer, but if the team is relying on Rodriguez to be a starter, they are expecting a jump in play we haven’t seen yet.
The Nickel Solution
Of course, the Lions could just play more nickel sets and counter their thinness at linebacker by playing more defensive backs. But they’re still likely to play three linebackers a fair amount, and it’s one position where there has been a clear downgrade from last year.
It’s not panic time, but if you’re looking for the soft spot on this roster, this is it.
Where do you think the Lions are currently the weakest? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
I gotta say, this LB group is making me nervous but not like the old days. Brad Holmes actually seems to have a plan, even if it’s not all clicking yet. Campbell’s gonna get these guys playing hard whether they’re Pro Bowlers or not.
Jack Campbell is legit All-Pro level, so it’s not like we’re completely dead at the position. Yeah, Anzalone being gone stings, but let’s see what Damone Clark and Rolder can do before we panic. This coaching staff knows what they’re doing.
The linebacker situation is the one spot where I actually think they might’ve underestimated the drop off. I like what Brad’s built but this feels like a real problem if we need those guys for more than coverage packages. Hoping I’m wrong though.