Malcolm Rodriguez is back with the Detroit Lions, but his spot is not secure. Injuries have slowed him down, and he now has only one year left on his contract. This season will decide what happens next. One NFL writer has addressed the questions around him.

"Now, after returning midway through last season and appearing in seven games with one start last season, Rodriguez has an opportunity to start once again," Christian Booher of Sports Illustrated wrote. "He'll need a strong training camp to fend off free agent signing Damone Clark and draft pick Jimmy Rolder."

After injuries disrupted his final two seasons on his rookie deal, Rodriguez is back with the Detroit Lions on a one-year prove-it contract, giving him another chance to compete for a starting role.

"The Oklahoma State product has been reliable when called upon, and by all indications is the favorite to win the job," Booher further wrote. "However, the Lions are a meritocracy and he'll certainly have to earn the job with a strong performance and a strong first impression in OTAs."

The decision to bring him back shows trust from the organization, especially with changes in the linebacker room after Alex Anzalone’s departure. 

After a strong start as a rookie in 2022, across his four-year run, he has recorded 163 total tackles, including 111 solo tackles and 52 assisted tackles, along with three sacks.

While these numbers show he can contribute when available, his role has not remained consistent due to injuries and competition.

Now, Rodriguez is back healthy, but his place in the team is not guaranteed.

With OTAs underway in Detroit, attention has also turned to Rodriguez’s recovery and where he stands physically for the 2026 season.

NFL Writer Talks About OTA Expectations From Malcolm

Rodriguez had a delayed return from his ACL injury after undergoing a second knee surgery. He eventually came back 12 months after the injury on November 23, 2025, as he worked his way back to full fitness. 

As per a Lions Wire report by Jimmy Liao on May 29, most of his time last season was spent on special teams, with limited defensive involvement for much of the year.

However, in the final game, he saw a major increase in usage, playing 73% of the defensive snaps, showing signs of gradual progress despite some lingering knee concerns.

The reports further mention how, upon entering the current OTAs, Rodriguez is finally expected to participate with no physical limitations.

This offseason marks his first chance in over a year to practice at full speed without a knee brace, allowing him to show the quick movement that defined his rookie season. 

What do you think, can he step up this season or not? Let us know in the comments. 

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Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote