Barnes was set to be an unrestricted free agent at the start of the new league year. Now, the former fourth-round pick will be under contract through 2027, as the Lions return a key player who totaled 81 tackles and five TFLs during the 2023 season. Barnes was one of several Lions defenders who fell victim to the injury bug in 2024. He took a block to his knee during a Week 3 game against the Cardinals, which resulted in a torn MCL and PCL that ended his season. Although, it’s worth noting he avoided any damage to his ACL. Barnes reported in November that he was no longer on crutches, and is , according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Barnes was carted off during Week 3’s win over the Cardinals. He played 120 snaps for the Lions in the first three weeks, registering 10 combined tackles and one defensed pass. Malcolm Rodriguez took over most of the snaps in Barnes’ absence.

Barnes to a block to the knee in the second quarter and immediately went down. He was taken to the locker room on the cart and doesn’t look likely to return. Cornerback Terrion Arnold is questionable to return because of a knee issue. He was spotted on the bike on the sidelines and may be able to return.

Barnes has appeared in every game for the Lions this year, 11 of which were credited as starts for the third-year linebacker. He has 71 total tackles, four TFLs, and a sack this season. The Lions listed him as doubtful for Week 16 because of a shoulder injury.