Lions Bolster Linebacker Depth by Signing Veteran Troy Reeder
The Detroit Lions have added experience to their linebacker corps ahead of training camp, signing veteran Troy Reeder. Entering his seventh NFL season, Reeder brings 38 career starts and extensive special teams experience, giving Detroit another reliable depth option on defense.
Reeder Brings Valuable NFL Experience
Reeder entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Los Angeles Rams in 2019 but quickly earned a role. He started eight games as a rookie, totaling 58 tackles before expanding his role over the next two seasons.
In 2020, Reeder started seven games and finished with 81 tackles, three sacks, and five tackles for loss. He followed that with a career-high 10 starts in 2021, recording 91 tackles, two sacks, and six tackles for loss.
After the 2021 season, Reeder reunited with former Rams defensive coordinator Brandon Staley by signing with the Los Angeles Chargers. However, he was unable to secure a full-time starting role and returned to the Rams after one season.
Back in Los Angeles, Reeder started six games in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons before a hamstring injury sidelined him late in 2024. Although the Rams brought him back in 2025, he made just one start and finished the season with 25 tackles.
While he may no longer project as an every-down starter, Reeder has consistently shown he can step into the lineup when needed.
Special Teams Could Secure His Roster Spot
One of Reeder’s biggest assets is his work on special teams. He has logged nearly 1,900 career special teams snaps, including 394 with the Rams last season while contributing across all five units.
That versatility gives him a strong chance to stick on Detroit’s roster, even if he isn’t competing for a starting defensive role.
Where Reeder Fits on Detroit’s Depth Chart
The Lions appear set with Jack Campbell atop the linebacker group after recently signing him to a contract extension. Derrick Barnes is also expected to play a significant role thanks to his ability to line up both off the ball and on the edge.
Malcolm Rodriguez remains an important piece after battling injuries last season, while rookie Jimmy Rolderâselected in the fourth round of this year’s draftâwill also be in the mix for playing time.
That leaves Reeder competing for one of the final linebacker spots. Trevor Nowaske offers value as both a reserve defender and special teams contributor, while free-agent addition Damone Clark may be Reeder’s biggest competition. Clark enters his fifth NFL season with 26 career starts, giving Detroit another experienced option with a similar rĂ©sumĂ©.
Whether Reeder ultimately wins a roster spot could come down to his battle with Clark, but either player would provide the Lions with dependable veteran depth behind their starting linebackers heading into the 2026 season.
Leave a Reply