The Detroit Lions have strengthened their linebacker unit by signing veteran linebacker Troy Reeder ahead of the start of training camp. The move adds valuable experience and depth to a defense looking to build on its success as the team prepares for the 2026 NFL season.
Reeder arrives in Detroit after spending time with several NFL franchises, including the Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers and Minnesota Vikings. The former Delaware standout entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2019 and has since established himself as a dependable contributor on both defense and special teams.
During his NFL career, Reeder has appeared in more than 100 regular-season games while making numerous starts at linebacker. He was also a member of the Rams team that captured Super Bowl LVI, giving the Lions another player with championship experience in the locker room.
The signing reunites Reeder with Lions general manager Brad Holmes, who was part of the Rams’ front office when the linebacker began his NFL career. That familiarity likely played a role in Detroit’s decision to add the veteran to its roster.
While Reeder is expected to compete for a backup linebacker role, his greatest immediate value may come on special teams. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation as a reliable special teams performer capable of stepping into defensive snaps whenever injuries or game situations require.
Detroit’s linebacker room is led by Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes and Malcolm Rodriguez, but adding an experienced veteran provides important insurance as the team heads into a physically demanding training camp. Reeder’s versatility and football IQ should give the coaching staff another trusted option at multiple phases of the game.
Although the move may not be one of the offseason’s biggest headlines, it reflects the Lions’ commitment to building a deep and experienced roster capable of competing for a championship. With training camp set to begin, Detroit continues to make calculated additions that strengthen its chances of making another deep playoff run.
