Alex Anzalone's departure has left a significant void in the Lions' defense. With their former captain gone, Detroit moved quickly to secure a familiar face. The team is bringing back linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez on a new one-year deal.

After Anzalone signed a two-year, $17 million contract with the Buccaneers, Rodriguez signed a one-year contract with Detroit. He is now the first in-house free agent and defender to sign with his current team in this free agency.

Rodriguez received significant attention as a rookie, starting in 15 games. However, his role considerably shrank in the next three seasons, largely because of the inclusion of Derrick Barnes and Jack Campbell in the Lions’ lineup. 

In the last two seasons, he has played just 17 games due to injuries. Unfortunately, he also went down with the season-ending ACL injury. He returned late to the lineup next season and appeared in seven games.

He has appeared in 50 games with 164 tackles, two fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles, three passes defended, and three sacks.

Despite his reduced role, he has remained a crucial piece for Detroit, both as a reserve player and on special teams.

Will Rodriguez Be Able to Fill Anzalone’s Gap on the Lions’ Roster?

Anzalone's move to Tampa Bay raises questions about whether Rodriguez can fill the defensive captain's role. Along with Rodriguez, the Lions now have three linebackers on the roster, including Derrick Barnes and Jack Campbell.

Anzalone was one of the best ones in the league for his coverage abilities, which the current linebackers on the roster, including Rodriguez, lack. 

Moreover, both Anzalone and Rodriguez have different playing styles and significantly differ in their caliber. It seems unlikely Rodriguez can match Anzalone's production. In the current scenario, it seems like the Lions might go hunting for more linebackers in the coming days.

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Written by

Nandjee Ranjan

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar