Amidst a considerably chaotic first day of the NFL new league 12 months, the Detroit Lions got here out with yet one more free agent, particular groups linebacker addition. Detroit has reportedly agreed to phrases with former Colts linebacker Grant Stuard.
With the now-official launch of Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Stuard seems to doubtlessly be the following in line to step in as a particular teamer with defensive upside. Stuard has spent the final three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, and primarily based on the response after his transfer to Detroit, he rapidly turned one of the crucial beloved gamers with Indy.
Right here’s a have a look at how Indianapolis media and followers reacted to the information.
Colts, nationwide media reacts to Grant Stuard signing with Lions
Initially, earlier than we get into all the things, I believe it bears repeating that Lions particular groups coordinator Dave Fipp was already a fan of this man, mentioning him unprompted in a press convention earlier than Detroit’s matchup with the Colts.
“Quantity 41’s a hair on hearth participant, this man’s relentless,” Fipp mentioned. “He’s acquired a terrific story, I learn it this summer season, there’s a terrific article about him. However only a nice participant and I’ve quite a lot of respect for him.”
The story he’s referring to is that this one from The Athletic’s Zac Keefer. It’s a story of Stuard’s perseverance, coping with a horrible house scenario and surviving regardless of being on the point of suicide. It’s price your time.
All indicators level to Stuard being a reasonably particular particular person. Right here’s what Colts media needed to say about him:
Grant Stuard is without doubt one of the greatest folks I’ve ever lined, and I’m certain a number of others on the #Colts beat would say the identical.
Received it out the mud. By no means makes excuses. Performs like each snap may very well be his final. https://t.co/zUABg4cp07
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) March 12, 2025
Destin Adams:
“Grant Stuard has been probably the greatest particular teamers for the Colts since they acquired him from the Buccaneers forward of the 2022 season. He turned a giant chief on the sector and within the locker room amongst that group virtually instantly”
Grant Stuard heads to Detroit. I’ve a sense he’ll rapidly turn out to be Dan Campbell’s favourite participant. Discuss an ideal match. https://t.co/lgBIiBbxpj
— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) March 12, 2025
And a few highlights:
Grant Stuard reminding me of a less complicated time when linebackers like this had been the norm. Convey again deal with machines that throw their physique into each play pic.twitter.com/BhDqnA9tHc
— Zach Hicks (@ZachHicks2) October 21, 2024
Colts followers’ reactions
As you might count on, a participant with lengthy, flowing hair, an unbelievable story, and a tenacious enjoying model was fairly rattling in style amongst Colts followers. Right here’s how they reacted to the information of him heading to Detroit:
This hurts man. He ought to have been beginning for the Colts.
— TL (@TL4Colts) March 12, 2025
Particular groups demon. Performs along with his hair on hearth. Nice power man. He’ll slot in good in Detroit
— PacersEnjoyer (@PacersEnjoyer) March 12, 2025
Noooo, that makes me so unhappy. I liked watching him play. He is without doubt one of the hardest staff irrespective of the position. I’m joyful for him however unhappy for us.
— Jackie (@coachjackiemc) March 12, 2025
Lions getting an absolute dawg
— Alex Snider (@alexsnider1231) March 12, 2025
Particular groups demon. Can play in a pinch, particularly run downs.
— Brandon (@KingSimpson24) March 12, 2025
Love this dude. Hope he’s getting paid properly.
— Bob Sanders to the Ring of Honor (@GDThompson99) March 12, 2025
Sure. He’s primarily a particular groups ace, however he does okay as a backup. He had some beginning snaps as a consequence of accidents, and he didn’t look completely misplaced on the sector.
— Steven (@ocean_sandz) March 12, 2025
I wouldn’t say good. However he’s a dan Campbell LB if I’ve ever seen one
— Aaron (@Aaron97___) March 12, 2025
