Emotional Return: Lions Super Linebacker Reveals Mental Battle Amid Devastating Knee Injury

“Mentally and physically, it was one of the toughest things I’ve gone through,” Barnes told MLive, speaking about his knee injury. “I tore both my MCL and PCL, and the rehab process was grueling. It really humbled me. But I bounced back well. When I had the operation, even the surgeon was shocked at how fast I was healing. He said I was built different.”

Despite the challenges, Barnes said things improved steadily. “There were times during rehab when I honestly thought I’d never get better,” he admitted.

The injury occurred just three games into the season. Doctors initially estimated a recovery period of three to five months. Since the setback happened in September, Barnes would have likely been cleared to play by the time Super Bowl LIX rolled around—if the Lions had reached the championship.

Though the early stages of his recovery were slow and difficult, Barnes gradually began showing up more at team facilities as the season wore on, walking normally and showing no lingering effects from his injury.

“That’s just how recovery goes,” Barnes said. “At first, it feels like you’re not getting anywhere. Then suddenly, your body starts responding, and things progress rapidly. I’m just thankful to be healthy again and back on the field with my teammates.”

Throughout the first two weeks of training camp, including multiple full-contact practices, Barnes has looked sharp. While he’s been getting extra reps as an off-ball linebacker, his main role remains at strong-side (SAM) linebacker—a position he’s naturally suited for.

Detroit showed its faith in Barnes earlier this offseason by awarding him a new three-year contract worth $25.5 million.