The Detroit Lions wasted no time getting one of their better defensive players locked up this offseason, as they have already agreed to terms with a deal that will reward linebacker Derrick Barnes for his development and role as a key member of their new-look defense.
The Lions agreed to a three-year contract with Barnes that pays him $25.5 million in the next few seasons. Barnes, Alex Anzalone, and Jack Campbell are now locked in as the starting linebackers for a team that needs to keep their defense together after the loss of Aaron Glenn.
Lions sign LB Derrick Barnes to three-year contract extension
While Barnes played just three games last season due to his injuries, the former fourth-round pick has emerged as a speedy linebacker with solid coverage skills alongside Campbell. Detroit's defense was clearly less effective when he and others were out with injuries.
