On November 18th the Lions signed Linebacker David Long Jr. who was released by the Miami Dolphins on 11/13. Long was initially a 6th round pick of the Tennessee Titans in 2019, but after a strong season in 2022 he moved onto Miami, where he signed a 2 year $11 million deal. The recent release by Miami arrives on the heels of his best season, where he started all 17 games, collecting 113 combined tackles, 9 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. Long also boasted the top run defense grade amongst linebackers in the NFL.

Long Jr. was named a defensive captain at the start of preseason, but a hamstring injury would derail his momentum. Since returning, he has struggled in the area of run defense, as well as coverage. Long’s current PFF score is a lowly 37. Per Russel Brown of Yahoo Sports, “There are times that he looks hesitant, plays too slow or too fast or he simply just makes the wrong read”.  Long has a  28% missed tackle rate and has allowed 22/23 receptions for 246 yards and a TD.

David Long Jr.: best run defender in the NFL this season (93.3) 😤 pic.twitter.com/45dfenVGin

— PFF MIA Dolphins (@PFF_Dolphins) January 11, 2024

The Signing of David Long Jr. was due to the recent injury of Alex Anzalone, who broke his forearm in the Sunday win over Jacksonville. Long is not far removed from great successes on the field, and a fresh start with a Super Bowl contender should give Long all the motivation he needs to bounce back and make the best of his current situation. The Lions currently have 3 linebackers on the IR (Anzalone, Barnes, and Reeves-Mayben). Long will begin on the practice squad, but if he can show some indication that he is able to contribute, he is certain to get a chance at making some plays, for a defense that seems to get stronger and stronger by the week.