Detroit Lions retaining LB Malcolm Rodriguez on one-year deal
Allen Park — The Detroit Lions are allowing longtime starting linebacker Alex Anzalone to walk in free agency, but are retaining the man who served as his backup the past couple of seasons, Malcolm Rodriguez.
The one-year deal was first reported by “The Schultz Report.”
A sixth-round draft pick in 2022, Rodriguez earned a starting job as a rookie and delivered 87 tackles in 16 games. Pushed into a reserve role following the addition of Jack Campbell, Rodriguez only played 120 defensive snaps as a rookie. Still, he found ways to contribute as one of three Lions to log more than 300 reps on special teams that season.
In his third season, while filling in for an injured Anzalone, Rodriguez suffered a torn ACL. A summer cleanup procedure on the injured knee kept him sidelined nearly a full year before he returned to action last November.
Rodriguez ended up appearing in seven games, starting the season finale in place of Anzalone, who was ruled out with a concussion.
The re-signing secures much needing linebacker depth for Detroit. And with Anzalone’s departure, it opens the door for Rodriguez to reclaim a larger defensive role, potentially working alongside starters Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes in the team’s base package.
If he can stay healthy...a good move.
Works for me--Rodrigo knows the defense (players and coaches). Plus one year removed from injury, and on a cheap 1 year (prove-it) contract, he will earn his keep if only on ST.