Detroit is wasting no time preparing for the future, locking in an essential member of their defense.
Linebacker Derrick Barnes has agreed to a three-year, $25.5 million contract extension with the Lions, as reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The deal guarantees him $16 million at signing.
Barnes has been a crucial part of Detroit’s defensive scheme, seamlessly transitioning between edge rusher and off-ball linebacker. Given that the Lions frequently utilize their base defense on early downs, Barnes’ versatility makes him a highly valuable asset.
With this extension, Barnes will continue to develop and contribute his prime years in Detroit.
Lions Continue to Invest in Their 2021 Draft Class
Detroit’s general manager, Brad Holmes, has been instrumental in the team’s impressive turnaround. Since joining the franchise alongside head coach Dan Campbell in 2021, Holmes has made significant draft selections that have shaped the current roster.
Several of the key players from the 2021 draft have earned long-term deals, with Barnes now becoming the fourth to secure an extension.
Earlier in 2024, Detroit rewarded wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown with a four-year, $120 million contract—an incredible value considering he was a fourth-round pick. On the same day, offensive tackle Penei Sewell, the team’s first-round selection that year, also landed a four-year, $112 million extension.
During the season, defensive tackle Alim McNeill joined them by signing a four-year, $97 million contract.
Two remaining members of that draft class, Ifeatu Melifonwu and Levi Onwuzurike, could also be in line for new deals this offseason.
This 2021 draft group may go down as one of the most impactful in Lions history, playing a significant role in the franchise’s resurgence.
