If you are looking for a microcosm of the Detroit Lions turnaround, from the beginning of 2021 until now, look no further than the linebacker room.
Back when Lions’ coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes took over, the cupboard was barren. They had just brought veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone into the fold, Derrick Barnes was a rookie, and the defense as a whole really struggled throughout the majority of the 2021 season.
Fast forward to now, and like the rest of the Lions’ roster—things have changed in a big way. It may not be regarded as an elite unit headed into the 2024 season, but they could very well be on their way.