The Detroit Lions are considering a reunion with former second-round pick Jahlani Tavai to enhance their linebacker unit for the 2026 season. This idea is gaining traction as the team looks to strengthen its defense.
The idea of a reunion is starting to pick up steam.
According to Mike Payton of A to Z Sports, the Detroit Lions should consider bringing back former second-round pick Jahlani Tavai to help strengthen their linebacker unit heading into the 2026 season.
And when you look at the numbers, itās not a crazy idea.
Anthony Lucas Detroit Lions Jahlani Tavai Detroit Lions return
Tavaiās first stint in Detroit didnāt live up to expectations after he was selected in the second round back in 2019.
But since leaving, heās quietly turned himself into a productive NFL linebacker with the New England Patriots.
Over his seven-year career, Tavai has totaled:
Thatās not elite production, but itās solid, consistent, and valuable.
Tavai really found his footing in New England, where he became a regular contributor.
From 2021ā2025 with the Patriots, he recorded:
Bringing back Jahlani Tavai could strengthen the Lions' linebacker unit, addressing potential weaknesses in their defense.
Jahlani Tavai's previous stats with the Lions include being a second-round pick, showcasing his potential as a valuable asset on defense.
Jahlani Tavai could provide experience and depth to the Lions' defense, potentially improving their performance in the upcoming season.
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His best season came in 2023, when he posted:
Thatās the version of Tavai the Lions would be gettingānot the young, inconsistent player from his first stint.
Detroitās linebacker room has talent, but itās still sorting itself out.
Payton suggests Tavai could step in at the Will linebacker spot, providing a steady presence while younger players like Jimmy Rolder continue to develop.
At minimum, he would bring real competition to training camp.
At best, he could start early in the season.
This isnāt about nostalgia.
Itās about fit and value.
Tavai:
And for a team looking to contend, those boxes matter.
Jahlani Tavai isnāt a flashy name.
But heās a reliable one.
And if the Lions are serious about adding depth and competition to their defense, bringing back a player who has already proven he belongs might be one of the smarter moves they can make.
Sometimes, a second chance works out better than the first.