The Detroit Lions have agreed to terms with former Indianapolis Colts linebacker Grant Stuard, a versatile player with a strong background in special teams. The signing was announced by Stuard himself on Instagram.
Stuard, 26, was originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He began his career primarily as a special teams contributor, earning recognition for his skills in that area. In 2022, he was traded to the Colts, where he continued to excel on special teams, eventually being named a special teams captain.
While Stuard’s primary role has been on special teams, he has also demonstrated his ability to contribute on defense. Last season, he started five games at linebacker for the Colts, showcasing his versatility.
The Lions’ decision to sign Stuard addresses a key need for the team, which struggled with injuries on defense last season. By adding Stuard to their roster, the Lions gain valuable depth on defense while also bolstering their special teams unit with a proven performer. The signing is expected to provide significant value at a relatively low cost.
