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High hopes haven't waned for Detroit Lions' Derrick Barnes: 'He's going to be a good player'

Rookie linebacker Derrick Barnes could be in line for an expanded role when the Detroit Lions visit the Denver Broncos this week.

Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn said Thursday that Barnes and linebacker Josh Woods will play in tandem as part of the team's linebacker rotation Sunday.

Alex Anzalone has played all but four defensive snaps this season, leaving to briefly tend to an injury against the Los Angeles Rams, while the Lions have deployed a revolving cast of complements by his side at linebacker.

Jamie Collins opened the season as starter, but was released in late September to open playing time for younger players at the position.