Lions Lose Special Teams Ace Grant Stuard to Rams

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The Detroit Lions have lost another key defensive player in free agency, as linebacker Grant Stuard has signed a two-year, $5.05 million contract with the Los Angeles Rams. Stuard was a standout on special teams for the Lions last season, leading the team with 375 special teams snaps.

Why it matters

Stuard's departure leaves a significant hole on the Lions' special teams units, which were a strength for the team in 2022. The Lions have now lost several defensive contributors this offseason, making linebacker a position of need heading into the draft.

The details

Stuard signed a one-year, $1.7 million deal with the Lions last year and immediately became a core special teams player. He played in all 17 games and finished the season with 19 tackles. The Lions had planned to use Stuard as a kick returner early on, but later shifted him to other special teams roles.

• Stuard signed a two-year, $5.05 million contract with the Los Angeles Rams on March 12, 2026.
• In 2022, Stuard signed a one-year, $1.7 million deal with the Detroit Lions.

What’s next

The Lions will need to find a replacement for Stuard on special teams and add depth at the linebacker position through free agency or the upcoming draft.