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Projected Detroit Lions Starter Emotional in Return to Practice Field After Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Jul 23, 2025 3:43 PM ET

The Detroit Lions have plenty of talent to work with on defense in Kelvin Sheppard's first season as coordinator, including familiar faces Aidan Hutchinson, Derrick Barnes and others on the verge of returning to regular season action from injury.

Barnes has been projected as the Lions' prospect starter at strong side linebacker, a positive development for a defense ravaged by injuries last season.

Barnes appeared at the Lions' training camp this week and spoke with media, becoming emotional at the prospect of regaining his spot on defense.

"I dreamed of this day, of this camp. A long time coming," Barnes said according to Detroit reporter Brad Galli.

"It can be taken away from you in a snap of a finger, which it was for me last year."

Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes missed 14 games last season due to injury. He is emotional returning to the field.

"I dreamed of this day, of this camp. A long time coming,
he said. "It can be taken away from you in a snap of a finger, which it was for me last year." pic.twitter.com/RUU6BU9WXT
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) July 22, 2025

Barnes had a career-best 81 tackles including 42 solo in 2023 before playing in just three games and recording just 10 tackles last season.

Barnes underwent surgery last year to repair MCL and PCL tears in his right knee and has since been working his way back to meaningful snaps on the field.

A return to form from Barnes could be just what the doctor ordered for the Lions' defense with linebacking expert Sheppard now at the controls.

Barnes is expected to join a loaded corps that includes Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, Malcolm Rodriguez and others this season in pursuit of a third straight NFC North title.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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