Expectations were high for Derrick Barnes entering the 2024 season, as the Detroit Lions linebacker was set to play a major role in the defense. However, his campaign was cut short due to a knee injury suffered in Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals. Though he wasn’t officially ruled out until the playoffs, the loss was significant for Detroit’s defense.
Barnes was riding the momentum of a strong postseason the year prior, highlighted by a clutch interception in the 2023 divisional round win over Tampa Bay. Under the guidance of Kelvin Sheppard then linebackers coach and now defensive coordinator — Barnes was primed for a big leap.
Now heading into his fifth NFL season and backed by a new three-year, $25.5 million contract extension, questions remain about whether he can return to the level of play that saw him tally 81 tackles, five tackles for loss, and a forced fumble just two years ago.
Lions outside linebackers coach David Corrao addressed those questions last week, emphasizing that each season is a fresh start. “You can’t assume you just pick up where you left off,” Corrao said. “Every year, it’s a new team, a new roster you build it from scratch. But that’s also a positive for Derrick. It was unfortunate we couldn’t see the full trajectory, because his role was unique he played on and off the ball, pressured, dropped into coverage. He’s dynamic and explosive, and I’m really looking forward to watching that over a full season.”
Despite Barnes’ absence along with injuries to fellow linebackers Alex Anzalone (forearm), Malcolm Rodriguez (ACL), and Jalen Reeves-Maybin (upper body) the Lions still finished the regular season 15-2, securing the NFC’s top seed and a second consecutive division title.
However, those injuries eventually took a toll. The Lions fell to the Washington Commanders in the divisional round, with Barnes and Rodriguez still sidelined. That loss highlighted how thin Detroit’s defense had become late in the season.
Still, Corrao dismissed the idea that the team dwelled on what might have been. “Injuries are part of the game. You can’t control them, and nobody’s going to feel sorry for you,” he said. “It’s always about the next man up. Each week, we look at who’s available and figure out how to compete. There’s no time to sit around thinking about who’s hurt this is the NFL, and everyone’s out to beat you.”
