The Detroit Lions’ defense continues to face significant challenges this NFL season, with another setback confirmed today. Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez has torn his ACL, an injury sustained during last Thursday’s game against the Chicago Bears, which will end his season prematurely.
Rodriguez had stepped up in a larger role on the Lions’ defense due to injuries affecting other players, including Derrick Barnes and Alex Anzalone. Over the course of 10 games this season, Rodriguez started in six, accumulating 43 tackles, two tackles for loss, and two sacks.
In light of Rodriguez’s absence, the Lions are expected to make further adjustments to their defensive strategy, likely relying more on linebackers David Long Jr. and Ezekiel Turner. Additionally, the team has signed linebacker Kwon Alexander, who had been on the Denver Broncos practice squad after recovering from a torn Achilles that sidelined him for most of last season.
Despite a challenging season, Alexander brings a wealth of experience to the table; having been a fourth-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he has played 107 games with 90 starts across various teams. His recent experience, including two starts with the Broncos this season, positions him as a valuable asset for the Lions as they seek to maintain defensive stability amid ongoing injuries.
In summary, while the Lions face hurdles with their defense, the addition of Kwon Alexander provides a glimmer of hope for a rebuild in defense, as the team works to adapt and overcome the challenges of injuries. The dedication of the coaching staff and remaining players will be crucial in navigating through this tough period.