Lions Linked to Former All-Pro Linebacker Matt Milano in Potential Bargain Move
Lions Named Top Fit for ‘Bargain’ All-Pro Linebacker Seeking NFL Comeback
The Detroit Lions may have another opportunity to strengthen their defense without giving up valuable draft picks.
Former Buffalo Bills linebacker Matt Milano is still looking for an NFL opportunity, and a recent Bleacher Report analysis has identified Detroit as one of the teams that could make sense for the veteran defender.
The timing is interesting for the Lions, especially with starting linebacker Jack Campbell sidelined by a neck injury.
Why Matt Milano is attracting attention
Milano was one of the NFL’s most productive linebackers during the 2022 season, earning second-team All-Pro recognition.
He finished that campaign with 99 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 11 pass breakups, three interceptions and 1.5 sacks.
His ability to defend against the run, cover receivers and contribute as a blitzer made him an important part of Buffalo’s defense.
However, injuries have interrupted his career. Milano missed 30 games between 2023 and 2025, raising understandable questions about how much he could contribute over a full season.
He did manage to appear in 12 games in 2025, recording 67 tackles and 3.5 sacks.
Why Detroit could be a fit
The Lions have been forced to adjust their linebacker group following Campbell’s injury.
Derrick Barnes, Malcolm Rodriguez, Trevor Nowaske and other available options have taken on additional responsibilities.
Adding a veteran with Milano’s experience could give Detroit another option while Campbell works toward recovery.
Milano’s previous production suggests he has the experience to help a defense, but his recent injury history makes any potential signing something the Lions would need to evaluate carefully.
Would this be a bargain worth considering?
Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton included Detroit among the potential landing spots for Milano, describing him as a possible affordable addition.
That does not mean the Lions have contacted him or are preparing to sign him. There has been no confirmed agreement between the two sides.
Detroit also has to consider its existing linebacker depth, the player’s health and whether he can contribute immediately.
Head coach Dan Campbell has expressed confidence in the current roster, so a signing is far from guaranteed.
Still, the opportunity to add a former All-Pro linebacker without surrendering draft capital could be worth examining.
For Lions fans, the bigger question is whether Detroit should bring in another experienced linebacker while Jack Campbell remains unavailable, or continue trusting the players already on the roster.
Mabel Joshua is the founder and lead editor of CelebrityTale.com with 4+ years covering celebrity news, entertainment trends and pop culture. She curates breaking stories with verified sources, focusing on real-time updates from Hollywood, music and lifestyle. When not reporting, she tracks emerging talents and viral moments across social platforms.
