What Colts writers, fans are saying about Lions adding Grant Stuard

A look at what Colts fans and writers are saying about the Detroit Lions adding Grant Stuard free agency.

Amidst a somewhat chaotic first day of the NFL new league year, the Detroit Lions came out with yet another free agent, special teams linebacker addition. Detroit has reportedly agreed to terms with former Colts linebacker Grant Stuard.

With the now-official release of Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Stuard appears to potentially be the next in line to step in as a special teamer with defensive upside. Stuard has spent the last three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts , and based on the reaction after his move to Detroit, he quickly became one of the most beloved players with Indy.

Here’s a look at how Indianapolis media and fans reacted to the news.

Colts, national media reacts to Grant Stuard signing with Lions

First of all, before we get into everything, I think it bears repeating that Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp was already a fan of this guy, mentioning him unprompted in a press conference before Detroit’s matchup with the Colts.

“Number 41’s a hair on fire player, this guy’s relentless,” Fipp said. “He’s got a great story, I read it this summer, there’s a great article about him. But just a great player and I have a lot of respect for him.”

The story he’s referring to is this one from The Athletic’s Zac Keefer . It’s a tale of Stuard’s perseverance, dealing with a terrible home situation and surviving despite being on the brink of suicide. It’s worth your time.

All signs point to Stuard being a pretty special person. Here’s what Colts media had to say about him:

Destin Adams:

“Grant Stuard has been one of the best special teamers for the Colts since they acquired him from the Buccaneers ahead of the 2022 season. He became a big leader on the field and in the locker room amongst that group almost immediately”

And some highlights:

Colts fans’ reactions

As you may expect, a player with long, flowing hair, an incredible story, and a tenacious playing style was pretty damn popular among Colts fans. Here’s how they reacted to the news of him heading to Detroit: