Season Overview and Recent Changes
The Detroit Lions ended the 2024 season with a 15-2 record, topping one of the toughest divisions in football before losing in the divisional round. The offseason saw significant changes within the organization as coaching staff shifts and a notable turnover of impactful players unfolded, most prominently among the linebacker group.
Linebacker Market Shifts
While the team re-signed several key defensive players, including Zeke Turner, Derrick Barnes, Anthony Pittman, and Trevor Nowaske, two linebackers remained available. The evolving quarterback and linebacker landscape has prompted teams to reconsider their rosters, and the free agency window has opened opportunities for players seeking fresh starts.
Reeves-Maybin’s NFL Journey
At 30 years old, Reeves-Maybin began his collegiate career at Tennessee, earning Second-team All-SEC honors during his third season before being selected in the fourth round of the NFL draft in 2017. He initially served as a backup and special teams contributor with the Detroit Lions, eventually taking on a larger defensive role. His journey led him to the Houston Texans on a two-year deal, though his tenure there lasted only a season. Returning to Detroit in 2023, Reeves-Maybin played primarily on special teams while also contributing as a backup linebacker. Last season, he appeared in 159 defensive snaps and recorded 14 tackles and a forced fumble. His performance evaluations placed him in a mid-tier rank among qualified NFL linebackers in areas such as overall play, coverage ability, pass-rushing, and run defense.
Exploring a New Opportunity
With his release coinciding with the start of the new league year, the Lions have filled the vacancy by signing backup linebacker Grant Stuard. Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans, facing their own linebacker challenges after key players departed, emerge as a potential destination for Reeves-Maybin. Given his collegiate ties and familiarity with the region, a move to Tennessee could provide him an opportunity to revitalize his career and fill a critical need on a team looking to bolster its defensive depth.