As the Detroit Lions proved last year, depth can sometimes be as important as your top-end talent. You never know when or where the injury bug is going to hit, but when it does, you'd better be prepared.
Last year, it was the linebacker position (among others) for the Lions, and that’s where they had one of their best depth players waiting: Malcolm Rodriguez. Unfortunately, his season was cut short, making 2025 an extremely important year for his football future.
Malcolm Rodriguez
Expectations heading into 2024
With Derrick Barnes, Jack Campbell, and Alex Anzalone firmly ahead of him on the depth chart, Rodriguez was expected to be the primary backup at both off-ball linebacker positions.