Detroit Lions’ Malcolm Rodriguez Suffers Season-Ending ACL Injury

Detroit Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez has suffered a significant setback, as he has been diagnosed with a torn ACL, an injury that will keep him out for the remainder of the 2024 NFL season. The injury occurred during the Lions’ Thanksgiving Day game against the Chicago Bears, where Rodriguez went down in the fourth quarter holding his right knee and did not return to the game.

This latest injury adds to the Lions’ already depleted linebacker corps, which has been plagued by injuries throughout the season. Rodriguez joins Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin on injured reserve, all of whom have suffered significant injuries at the linebacker position. Despite these challenges, the Lions have managed to maintain a strong performance, currently standing at 11-1 after their 23-20 win over the Bears.

Coach Dan Campbell expressed his concerns about Rodriguez’s injury immediately after the game, indicating that it could be the most severe among the recent injuries to defensive players Josh Paschal and Levi Onwuzurike. Campbell emphasized the team’s resilience and adaptability, stating that they will continue to prepare the available players to fill the gaps left by the injured players.

Rodriguez had been a key player for the Lions, stepping up significantly after injuries to other linebackers. He had totaled 27 solo tackles, two sacks, a fumble recovery, and two tackles for loss this season. His absence will now create more opportunities for players like Trevor Nowaske, Ben Niemann, David Long Jr., and Ezekiel Turner to contribute to the team’s defense.

The Lions will next face the Green Bay Packers on Thursday, December 5, at Ford Field, where they will need to rely on their depth and team cohesion to overcome the latest injury blow.