He signed a 4-year extension worth $81 million in new money and it includes an $8.612 million signing bonus. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters ConnectThe Lions lost longtime team captain Alex Anzalone in free agency. Anzalone spent the first four seasons of his career with New Orleans before joining Detroit.However, Jack Campbell is the player who gives this unit its juice. He earned first-team All-Pro honors last season after recording 166 tackles, nine tackles for loss, five sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.Joining him are Derrick Barnes, who recorded 78 tackles, six tackles for loss and four sacks last season, and Malcolm Rodriguez, who steps into a starting role after primarily contributing on special teams.Defensive BacksDetroit Lions cornerback DJ. Reed (4), center, recovers a Baltimore Ravens fumble as safety Kerby Joseph (31), left, celebrates during the second half at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Md. on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters ConnectThis might be the Lions’ biggest weakness on defense. Detroit allowed 217.4 passing yards per game last season, ranking 20th in the NFL, although much of those struggles can be attributed to injuries in the secondary.No position group on Detroit’s defense was hit harder by injuries, and the effects will still be evident Sunday.Both starting safeties, Brian Branch (Achilles) and Kerby Joseph (knee), will miss the season opener as they continue rehabbing injuries suffered last season. In their absence, Chuck Clark and Avonte Maddox will serve as Detroit’s last line of defense.Rock Ya-Sin and DJ Reed are the Lions’ two perimeter cornerbacks, while Roger McCreary will handle the nickel role.Mailbag SubmissionsWednesdays, On SI Saints will answer your questions about what we see from our vantage point. To submit your thoughts or inquiries click here.Add us as a preferred source on GoogleFollow