The Lions’ linebacker room has been brutally beaten down this season, especially in recent weeks. They lost Derrick Barnes early in the year, and just a couple weeks ago, standout MLB Alex Anzalone went down with a broken forearm. One day after beating the Bears on Thanksgiving, the Lions received some awful news. Versatile linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez suffered a torn ACL, ending his season prematurely. He will be on the shelf for the rest of the regular season and won’t be available for the playoffs.

Although the news is both very unfortunate and frustrating, Brad Holmes quickly made a move to ease the nerves after another detrimental injury by signing a veteran linebacker to help fill the void.

Lions sign LB Kwon Alexander off Broncos practice squad

Kwon Alexander will play a big role in the Lions hunt for the number one seed in the NFC. Detroit will need him to step up with their linebacker room now being very thin.

Alexander’s career started in Tampa Bay, where he played four very productive seasons before he moved to the 49ers. He also played for the Saints, Jets, Steelers, and most recently, the Denver Broncos.

Alexander has played middle linebacker, which is where he is needed in Detroit, but he’s also played outside linebacker well and has lined up as an inside linebacker. That gives Aaron Glenn another weapon to experiment with.

LB David Long Jr. was signed after Anzalone’s injury, and he will now have an enhanced role on Glenn’s defense. He’s done well since joining the team and will be a key piece for the Lions as they pursue the Lombardi Trophy.