Detroit Lions 2026 First Quarter Grades: Defense

Linebackers: C

Signed to a contract extension after an All-Pro season last year, Jack Campbell has had an up-and-down start to the season. He was tasked in stepping up both on the field and as a leader with the departure of Alex Anzalone, and to this point hasn't quite been able to reach that level.

That said, there have been some encouraging moments for him. He had the game-winning strip sack against the Jets late in the fourth-quarter, and has improved in recent weeks.

Derrick Barnes has also played a big role, and shined in the team's season-opening win over the New Orleans Saints. Malcolm Rodriguez and Devin White have split duties as the third linebacker, though White is expected to miss some time after suffering a forearm injury Sunday.

White's injury could open up more opportunities for Jimmy Rolder, who has shown some flashes in a small role. His biggest moment to this point has been a tackle for loss against the Carolina Panthers in Week 4.

Trevor Nowaske has also flashed some ability, as his presence makes the unit faster. He has earned more opportunities, and is another candidate to fill the void left by White's injury.

Secondary: D

The group that has faced the most scrutiny to this point for Detroit has been their secondary, with many questioning Brad Holmes' lack of activity amidst the Terrion Arnold saga that ended with the former first-round pick being released.

At cornerback, the Lions have leaned on D.J. Reed as the top corner, but the veteran has yet to show that he can be a shutdown corner in their man-coverage oriented offense. He has allowed an opposing passer rating of 124.2, which is the worst amongst Detroit's cornerbacks.

Opposite him, Rock Ya-Sin began the year as the starter but has been replaced by Roger McCreary. While McCreary has taken his lumps, he recorded six passes defensed in the win over Arizona which suggests that he could be an answer.

The safety position has also taken some lumps, with Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph both sidelined. Avonte Maddox, who began the year as a starter next to Chuck Clark, suffered a season-ending injury in Week 2.

That injury has forced Christian Izien into a bigger role, and the free agent acquisition has been serviceable. However, he did not log any defensive snaps Sunday as Keith Abney got a look at safety against Arizona, and that could be something the team explores as the season progresses.

Ultimately, the group is set to get a boost as soon as out of the bye with Brian Branch returning to practice next week. When he returns, he could be a much-needed spark for Sheppard's group.