Lions set to get sneaky boost as overlooked defender nears return from injury
The Detroit Lions went into their Week 8 bye on a high note with a 24-9 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The defense, with a secondary depleted by injuries and the suspension of Brian Branch, especially stepped up.
Heading into that game, with the bye week around the corner, head coach Dan Campbell was asked about linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez as he seemingly nears a return from the torn ACL he suffered last Thanksgiving.
"Yeah, we're hoping after the bye (to start Rodriguez's 21-day return window), we can start rolling him out there a little bit", Campbell said.
Rodriguez underwent a second surgery to clean up scar tissue in his injured right knee during the offseason. That didn't appear likely to impact the expectation he'd be able to return sometime in November, approaching one year since his injury, and Campbell's comments confirmed that.
Malcolm Rodriguez is more than ready to return to action
While the Lions' secondary became the "Legion of Whom" against the Buccaneers, the linebacking corps has been a core strength of the defense. Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, and Derrick Barnes are all having nice seasons (No. 5, No. 23, and No. 33, respectively, among off-ball linebackers by overall Pro Football Focus grade entering Week 8).
So, barring injury (knock on wood), Rodriguez will likely slide into a role as a core special teamer when he's ready to play. That said, he has been effective filling in when needed since he started 15 games as a rookie in 2022.
Before he was injured last season, with Barnes out due to an early-season knee injury and Anzalone later suffering a broken arm, Rodriguez had 43 total tackles and two sacks over 10 games (six starts) and 318 defensive snaps.
The fourth-year man said he's been cleared for everything but football activity for more than a month and has been waiting "to plug in at the perfect time to come back."
"I'm ready for it," Rodriguez said, via Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. "It's one of those things where I want to get thrown into the fire and see what it does. I don't want to just ease into it, I kind of want to go full force."
Every case has to be treated uniquely (see Alim McNeill), but the Lions tend to slow-play putting players back on the field when they're coming back from major injuries. So it's possible that Rodriguez's three-week window to be activated is taken right to the end, and his playing time may be carefully managed for a game or two. But as expected, "Rodrigo" has no interest in being eased into action.
JALEN HURTS: THE QUARTERBACK WHO’S CHANGING LIVES ON AND OFF THE FIELD
Jalen Hurts’ rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. As the quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles, he has become one of the most exciting and dynamic players in the NFL, leading the team with a combination of poise, athleticism, and unshakeable determination. But Hurts' legacy isn’t just about his electrifying performances on the field. His leadership and commitment to making a difference in his community set him apart as a role model in today’s sports world.
Hurts, at just 25 years old, has already achieved incredible success. A dual-threat quarterback with both powerful arms and legs, he’s redefined the position and elevated the Eagles to the top of the NFC. His ability to perform in clutch moments, his leadership qualities, and his tenacity have quickly earned him respect from teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Yet, it’s his off-the-field efforts that are beginning to shine just as brightly as his athletic abilities.
For Hurts, success isn’t measured solely by Super Bowl appearances or MVP votes; it’s about making a positive impact on others. Throughout his career, Hurts has consistently focused on giving back, particularly to young athletes and underserved communities. His community-focused efforts include founding the
“I believe that it’s not just about winning games,” Hurts said in a recent interview. “It’s about impacting lives and being a role model for the next generation. The platform we have as athletes is powerful, and I want to use it to inspire others.” This sense of responsibility speaks volumes about Hurts’ character. While he is undoubtedly focused on improving as a player, he is equally dedicated to inspiring others to be better people, whether they’re playing football or navigating the challenges of everyday life.
The Hurts Family Foundation isn’t just about football skills; it’s about building self-confidence, teaching perseverance, and providing opportunities that many young people may not have access to otherwise. Hurts regularly hosts football camps, where he not only teaches technique but shares life lessons on work ethic, overcoming adversity, and handling success with humility. He often emphasizes to the kids that greatness doesn’t come from the number of touchdowns you score, but from the way you treat others and the positive influence you have on your community.
In a world where athletes are often seen as larger-than-life figures, Hurts’ approach is refreshing and grounded. He’s the epitome of a modern leader — someone who uses his fame and resources not just for personal gain, but for the betterment of those around him. His emphasis on mental fortitude, teamwork, and responsibility makes him a standout figure in an era where many athletes are focused solely on themselves.
While his talents on the field have already secured him a place in the hearts of Eagles fans, it’s the way he carries himself off the field that will leave the most enduring legacy. Jalen Hurts is proving that greatness in sports is about more than just titles; it’s about using your platform to elevate others and leave a lasting, positive impact. Whether he’s leading his team to victory or mentoring the next generation of athletes, Hurts is a beacon of leadership — a true role model whose influence stretches far beyond the football field.
Jalen Hurts is more than just a quarterback; he’s a philanthropist, a mentor, and a leader who is setting the standard for what it means to be an athlete in the modern age. His story is an inspiring one, reminding us that success is not just about what you achieve, but about the lives you touch along the way.
