Newly signed Detroit Lions linebacker Grant Stuard had multiple opportunities in free agency, including offers from teams with more open spots at his position. However, he opted to join the Lions on a one-year contract, citing the team’s culture, style of play, and the opportunity to contribute to a legitimate contender as key factors in his decision.
Stuard, 26, spent the last three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts after being selected in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. Throughout his career, he has been durable, missing only two games while playing in 17 games in three of his four seasons. While primarily a special teams player—logging over 1,200 snaps in that phase—he started five games for the Colts last year and showcased his defensive skills.
When discussing his decision to sign with Detroit, Stuard emphasized the team’s identity and work ethic.
“The culture stood out immediately,” he said. “From watching Detroit play, competing against them, and seeing my family cheer for them since Coach Campbell took over, I felt like I already knew a lot about them. They’re a team that gets a lot of attention. I’m someone who thrives on hard work, constant improvement, and coaching. This environment seems perfect for that.”
Stuard also noted that conversations with his agent and former teammates, such as Pat O’Connor, reinforced his belief that Detroit was the right fit.
“They told me, ‘If this is the kind of player you are, this is the kind of team you should be on.’ It just felt like a great match,” he added.
Detroit’s linebacker unit is already well-stocked, featuring veteran leader Alex Anzalone and recent first-round pick Jack Campbell. The Lions also extended Derrick Barnes with a three-year, $25.5 million contract and retained Anthony Pittman, Trevor Nowaske, and Ezekiel Turner. Malcolm Rodriguez, who returned to the rotation last year, adds further depth to an already strong group.
Despite the competition, Stuard is confident in his ability to contribute.
“Detroit has shown they’ll put the best 11 on the field based on the situation,” he explained. “Back in Indy, when we played someone like Lamar Jackson, I’d come in to blitz or spy on him. That’s something they do here, too. At the end of the day, I’m here to compete.
“I could have gone to a team where I’d get more immediate playing time, but I’d rather be on a great team that pushes me to get better. I had other options, but I’m focused on adding value here, learning from experienced players, and improving my game.”
Stuard credited his time with Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin as a key period of growth in his career. He’s eager to learn from Detroit’s linebackers and reunite with Rodriguez, whom he played alongside at the Senior Bowl.
Even with a standout performance in Week 7 last season—where he recorded 19 tackles and a tackle for loss in his first career start—Stuard isn’t preoccupied with immediate defensive snaps. He recognizes that playing time will be tough to earn, especially with Detroit’s established special teams unit.
“I spoke with Coach Fipp (special teams coordinator) today, asked some questions, and shared a little about myself,” Stuard said. “It’s all about building connections. I didn’t know much about him before playing against Detroit, but I studied him and their approach. One thing we both bring is energy.
“That’s what I saw when I met him, and it’s what I’ve heard about him. I’m a high-energy player, and I love bringing that to the field.”
