The Detroit Lions have received a huge lift on defense with the activation of linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, who has officially come off the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list ahead of Week 12.
The Lions have been battling multiple injuries, including the continued absence of All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph, who is expected to miss his fifth straight game. Head coach Dan Campbell has already hinted that Joseph will not play against the New York Giants.
While the secondary remains thin, Detroit finally gets help in the linebacker room. Rodriguez, 26, resumed full participation in practice last week for the first time since tearing his ACL on Thanksgiving 2024.
With his 21-day activation window close to expiring, the Lions were required to add him back to the active roster or lose him for the entire 2025 NFL season. His return ensures Detroit keeps an important defensive and special teams contributor available.
Before his injury in 2024, Rodriguez posted 43 tackles, two sacks, and one pass breakup in 10 games. Since being drafted in 2022, he has been a reliable piece for both the defense and special teams units.
The Lions enter Week 12 with a 6–4 record, sitting third in the NFC North and fighting for an NFC wildcard playoff spot. Rodriguez is now eligible to make his season debut in a crucial matchup against the 2–9 Giants, with the Carolina Panthers (6–5) close behind Detroit in the playoff race.
