Derrick Barnes was on track for free agency, but that will no longer be the case. The fourth-year linebacker has agreed to remain in Detroit for the foreseeable future.
Barnes and the Lions have a three-year deal in place, as first reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The pact is worth $25.5M and includes $16M fully guaranteed at signing. Barnes will eschew a trip to the open market in exchange for considerable security on his second career contract.
During his first two seasons in Detroit, the Purdue product served in a rotational role on defense while also chipping in on special teams. Barnes took on an increased workload in 2023, making 13 starts and setting a new career high in tackles (81). Expectations were high for a strong follow-up campaign this past year, but things did not go according to plan.
A knee injury limited Barnes to just three games in 2024. A return deep into the postseason was considered a possibility at times, but as the Lions navigated a multitude of injuries on defense in particular, it eventually became clear that would not be possible. That missed time threatened to hinder the 25-year-old’s market had he reached free agency, but he has nevertheless managed to secure a notable commitment from the Lions.
Detroit has Jack Campbell attached to his rookie contract, while veteran Alex Anzalone is on the books for 2025 (albeit without any guaranteed salary remaining on his deal). The team’s linebacker depth chart was recently thinned out to an extent by the decision to release Jalen Reeves-Maybin. Friday's news ensures Barnes will remain a key figure at the second level for 2025 and beyond, though.
The pending free agent class includes a few notable linebacker options, although one of the most attractive ones (Zack Baun) has already re-signed with the Eagles. Barnes coming off the market represents an unwelcomed development for his potential suitors, a group which may well have included the Jets. It will be interesting to see if any other deals at the position are worked out prior to the start of the new league year next week. In any case, Barnes is set to continue his career in the Motor City.
