Grant Stuard signed a one-year deal with Detroit to bolster linebacker depth and anchor a core special-teams unit. He’s slated to handle kickoff returns and serve as the punt personal protector in Week 1 against Green Bay, signaling an immediate role on the Lions’ return and protection teams.

The Lions’ season-opening plan centers on his gritty, versatile approach on kicking plays, with fantasy intrigue tied to any kickoff returns or punt-protector duties that could yield return-yardage or field-position advantages early in the year.

Grant Stuard was named a team captain for the Detroit Lions, the first such honor of his NFL career after signing in the offseason. He joins Jared Goff, Penei Sewell, Aidan Hutchinson, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Alex Anzalone in the leadership group, signaling a trust in his on-field versatility and intangibles.

A Houston Cougars alumnus and two-time All-AAC selection, Stuard has carved out a role as a hybrid defender and core special-teams contributor, rising from Mr. Irrelevant to captain. Detroit’s choice highlights his reliability, consistency, and impact on both sides of the ball.

Detroit named six-cap captains for 2025: Jared Goff, Aidan Hutchinson, Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Alex Anzalone, and Grant Stuard. Goff anchors the locker room and offense, sharing nuggets even when the unit is clicking. St. Brown leads by example with remarkable consistency. Sewell is growing into vocal leadership; Stuard has become a special teams cornerstone. Anzalone navigated a contract dispute with a timely raise, reflecting the franchise’s balancing act as it projects its core around a playoff window.

Terrion Arnold’s take highlights Goff’s mentorship vibe in practice, while Holmes emphasizes keeping a growing, expensive roster intact. The Lions’ leadership mix looks designed to sustain stability for fantasy managers, with rising stars backing veteran guidance as Detroit aims higher in 2025.

Detroit's 2025 haul targets the trenches: Ratledge shores the line, Reed strengthens the secondary, Stuard adds speed and depth, TeSlaa expands the receiver group, and Williams anchors the interior. After a 15-win run and playoff exit due to injuries, Detroit bets on a sturdier defense and rebuilt O-line. The five could lift the Lions' floor and fantasy upside as the season unfolds.