The Detroit Lions saw constant changes in their linebacker unit throughout 2024 due to injuries. These roster challenges forced the team to rotate multiple players, leading to both struggles and opportunities for evaluation.
One of the linebackers affected by these circumstances was Ezekiel Turner, a veteran now entering free agency. After contributing significantly in 2024, his potential return to Detroit for 2025 remains an open discussion.
Expectations Before 2024
Turner spent most of the offseason with the San Francisco 49ers but was released late in training camp. He then had short stints on the Texans’ and Seahawks’ practice squads before eventually signing with the Lions in early November.
At the time of his arrival, expectations were minimal. The Lions had not yet been hit with the linebacker injuries that would later shake their depth chart. Initially signed to the practice squad, Turner was expected to provide special teams depth rather than play a major defensive role.
While he had been in the NFL for six seasons, most of his contributions were on special teams. Prior to 2024, he logged 1,769 special teams snaps but only 190 defensive snaps throughout his career. His experience on defense was limited, with just two career starts and no season in which he played more than 107 defensive snaps.
At the time, his signing seemed like a standard move for special teams reinforcement rather than defensive depth.
Turner’s Role in 2024
2024 Season Stats (9 games, 0 starts):
12 tackles
0.5 sacks
3 QB hits
111 defensive snaps, 189 special teams snaps
PFF Grades:
Overall Defense: 49.7
Run Defense: 71.3
Pass Rush: 69.6
Tackling: 81.0
Coverage: 39.1
Special Teams: 77.4 (Ranked 70th among 697 qualifying players)
Turner began his tenure with Detroit primarily as a special teams player. Just days after signing, he was elevated for the Texans game, participating in 86% of special teams snaps. Shortly after, he was added to the 53-man roster and maintained a key role in special teams throughout the season.
However, when injuries depleted Detroit’s linebacking corps—taking out Derrick Barnes, Alex Anzalone, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin—Turner found himself playing a significant defensive role.
His initial performances were promising. Against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football, he made a crucial third-and-goal stop on Jordan Love, forcing a field goal that helped seal a Lions victory. That week, he received an elite 91.8 PFF grade on 17 defensive snaps.
Encouraged by his play, the Lions gave him a larger role in subsequent games against the Bills and Bears. However, his defensive effectiveness declined, particularly in pass coverage.
According to PFF, Turner surrendered a perfect passer rating when targeted in coverage. He allowed five catches on five targets for 65 yards and two touchdowns, exposing a significant weakness in his game.
Despite strong performances in run defense, tackling, and special teams, his struggles in pass coverage cost him defensive playing time once Reeves-Maybin and Anzalone returned.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Free Agent Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
Turner will enter free agency for the fourth consecutive year, leaving the Lions with a decision on whether to bring him back.
Reasons to Re-Sign Him
- Reliable Special Teamer – Turner has consistently been a strong special teams player throughout his career. Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp praised him for his intelligence, reliability, and trustworthiness.
- Potential Depth Piece – Initially, the Lions viewed him as a possible replacement for Reeves-Maybin on both defense and special teams. Despite struggles in coverage, the coaching staff believed in his athleticism and potential.
- Low Cost, High Familiarity – Re-signing Turner would be a low-risk move. Given that he is now familiar with Detroit’s system, he could provide insurance at linebacker for the veteran minimum (~$1.2 million).
Concerns About Re-Signing Him
- Coverage Issues – Turner’s pass coverage struggles were glaring, and the Lions’ defense suffered from poor linebacker play late in the season. If the Lions want to improve their defense, they may prefer to find younger, more versatile players.
- Limited Upside – At 29 years old and entering his eighth NFL season, Turner is unlikely to develop significantly as a defender. The Lions might be better off drafting a linebacker who could contribute in both special teams and defense.
Will There Be Mutual Interest?
Turner has openly stated he wants to stay in Detroit. After bouncing between teams in 2024, he appreciated the stability and the organization’s culture.
“This organization is second to none. I would love to continue to play here if the opportunity presents itself.”
From Detroit’s perspective, it’s unclear. The Lions emphasize special teams, so Turner’s skills in that area work in his favor. However, given the defensive struggles late in the season, the team may choose to focus on upgrading at linebacker instead.
A key factor could be the promotion of linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator. His evaluation of Turner’s performance may influence whether the team brings him back.
Final Thoughts
Re-signing Turner would be a low-risk move for Detroit. He remains a valuable special teams player, and at the veteran minimum, he wouldn’t be a financial burden. However, his defensive limitations—particularly in coverage—could make the Lions hesitant to bring him back.
Given that Detroit needs more defensive playmakers, the team might prioritize younger, more versatile linebackers in the draft or free agency. However, keeping Turner around for special teams depth wouldn’t be a bad move either.
