Malcolm Rodriguez Nears Return as Lions Eye Strong Second-Half Push
The Detroit Lions entered their Week 8 bye week riding high after a dominant 24–9 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite being shorthanded in the secondary due to injuries and the suspension of safety Brian Branch, Detroit’s defense rose to the occasion in impressive fashion.
As the team headed into its much-needed break, head coach Dan Campbell provided a positive update regarding linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, who has been working his way back from a torn ACL suffered last Thanksgiving.
“Yeah, we’re hoping after the bye we can start his 21-day return window and roll him out there a little bit,” Campbell said before the game.
Rodriguez had a cleanup procedure on his right knee earlier in the offseason to remove scar tissue, but that additional surgery didn’t appear to alter the team’s original timetable. Campbell’s comments reinforced expectations that the former Oklahoma State standout could make his return sometime in November, nearly a year after the initial injury.
Ready to Be Thrown Back Into Action
Detroit’s secondary, jokingly dubbed the “Legion of Whom” during the win over Tampa Bay, may have been depleted, but the linebacking corps has remained one of the defense’s most stable groups. Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, and Derrick Barnes have each performed well — ranking No. 5, No. 23, and No. 33 respectively among off-ball linebackers in overall Pro Football Focus grades entering Week 8.
With the unit performing at such a high level, Rodriguez will likely rejoin the lineup in a special teams role once activated. However, his experience and production make him a valuable rotational option. As a rookie in 2022, he started 15 games and became a fan favorite with his physical play.
Before going down last season, Rodriguez recorded 43 tackles, two sacks, and 318 defensive snaps over 10 games, stepping up during injuries to both Barnes and Anzalone.
Rodriguez told the Detroit Free Press that he’s been cleared for everything except direct football work for over a month and is simply waiting for the green light to return.
“I’m ready for it,” Rodriguez said. “I want to get thrown into the fire and see what happens. I don’t want to ease back in — I want to go full speed.”
Lions Taking a Cautious Approach
The Lions have historically taken a careful approach when bringing players back from significant injuries — as seen with Alim McNeill’s recovery process. Because of that, Rodriguez’s 21-day practice window could extend to its final day before activation. Even when he returns, his snap count may be limited as the team ensures he’s fully ready for contact.
Still, one thing is clear: “Rodrigo” is eager to get back on the field and make an impact as the Lions continue their push for the NFC North crown.
