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.
While Barnes has come down with injuries in the last few years that took a bit out of his overall effectiveness, but the Lions still seem to believe in him as a starting-caliber linebacker. In an offseason that could see many veteran players get booted out of town, Detroit did everything possible to keep Barnes.
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.
New defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, a former NFL linebacker who was promoted from linebackers coach to DC this offseason, may have had a hand in Barnes getting an extension. Sheppard's passion project was rewarded handsomely, and he should be able to keep Detroit's defense in the top half of the league despite Glenn having taken the Jets head coach job.
Not only do the Lions not have to direct a ton of capital towards their linebacker room this offseason, but they may have one of the better rooms in the NFC. Barnes is ascending, Campbell has proven to be a solid use of a first-round pick, and Anzalone is one of the more underrated players at his position.
The Lions may not be the best defense in the league last year, but they have multiple pieces worth keeping an eye on and extending as they build a sustainable. Barnes, one of Dan Campbell's best developmental stories, is one of them.
