Former Defensive Star Drafted in the 6th Round by the Detroit Lions Refuses to Return to Detroit, Targets a Revenge Game Against the Lions – Fans Speculate It Is a Retaliation Move

Detroit, MI – Former Detroit Lions defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad wasted no time turning frustration into fuel. After the Lions declined to offer him a contract extension, the 31-year-old pass rusher signed a one-year deal worth up to $6 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in March 2026 free agency. Fans are already buzzing: is this the start of a revenge tour?

Muhammad spent two impactful seasons in Detroit after joining the practice squad in October 2024. He earned a one-year, $1.4 million contract in 2025 and delivered a career-defining breakout. Yet general manager Brad Holmes never extended him, prompting a swift exit. Now he reunites with ex-Lion Alex Anzalone on a Buccaneers defense hungry for veteran edge production.

In his first interview after signing, Muhammad didn’t hide his feelings about Detroit’s decision. “I don’t really know how Detroit thought about it or what went into it, and I don’t really care,” he said. “I’m in Tampa, and I’m happy to be in Tampa. And if I’m not mistaken, they’re on the schedule this year, so I’m excited about that.”

He quickly balanced the edge with appreciation for the organization and its fans. “I do love Detroit, and it was amazing. It’s a great organization, and I appreciate them for giving me the opportunity to go out there and do some great things, and I look forward to also playing against them.”

Muhammad’s words lit up social media. Many Lions supporters see the upcoming Ford Field matchup as personal payback. After posting career highs in 2025, his departure feels like a missed chance for continuity on a defense that leaned heavily on him and Aidan Hutchinson.

The 2025 season was Muhammad’s finest yet. He played all 17 games, recording 11 sacks (second on the team), 9 tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hits, and earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors in Week 14. He and Hutchinson became the first Lions duo with 10+ sacks each since 1983.

As Tampa Bay prepares for the 2026 schedule, Muhammad’s motivation is clear. If he dominates against Detroit, it could haunt the Lions’ front office. For now, the narrative is set: a former star returns with something to prove. Will revenge taste sweet at Ford Field? The countdown is on.