It’s been about three months since Grant Stuard joined the Detroit Lions, and he’s already noticing a clear difference from his past NFL teams.

Now in his fifth year in the league, the linebacker was aware of the Lions’ culture under the current leadership, which heavily influenced his decision to sign. But seeing the “energy, intensity, and passion” in person at Allen Park from day one made a strong impression.

“It’s definitely been something new. I’ve had to adjust, you know?” Stuard told MLive after last Friday’s organized team activities. “I’ve been grinding hard mentally because the standard here is no joke. So I’m doing everything I can to match the level of intensity and what’s expected.”

To meet those high standards physically, Stuard has been logging extra hours both in the gym and on the field. He’s focusing on improving his explosiveness and speed, aiming to become a key part of the linebacker group and special teams.

Another driving force behind his push to improve is the coaching style he’s encountered in Detroit. Stuard said he’s seen players at past teams get torn down by tough coaching. But with the Lions, even strong critiques are delivered in a way that builds belief rather than discouragement.

Asked if the culture shift has been noticeable compared to his past teams, Stuard responded with confidence: “1000%.”

“When it comes to expectations and just straight-up intensity — from one player to another, or from coach to player — it’s definitely something I’ve embraced,” Stuard said. “But I’ve had to mentally gear up for it every time I come in.”

Stuard added that the direct and demanding approach from Lions coaches has been a positive change, one he believes can help unlock another gear in his game.

“It feels like one of those situations where you either step up or get left behind,” he said. “And I’m locked in on stepping up, chasing greatness, and just improving day by day. Learning from mistakes and not repeating them — that’s the focus.”

With training camp still a few weeks out, Stuard said coaches are already outlining plans to use him beyond just special teams — possibly giving him defensive snaps as well.

Stuard had a standout moment last year with the Indianapolis Colts. In a Week 7 win over the Dolphins, he racked up 19 total tackles — 11 solo, including one for loss — while playing 92% of the game.

That performance was a season-best for Stuard and highlighted his value as a special teams ace who can also fill in at linebacker — a role the Lions need filled after choosing not to re-sign All-Pro Jalen Reeves-Maybin.

Asked what fans can expect when he takes the field, Stuard kept his answer simple and fitting for Detroit.