Alex Anzalone’s defensive impact: A key piece in Detroit’s success

The 2024 season was shaping up to be another strong campaign for Anzalone until a broken forearm sidelined him for several games. His absence was immediately felt, as the Lions’ defense struggled to maintain the same level of intensity without him. However, when he made his return before the postseason, it became crystal clear just how essential he is to Detroit’s defensive success.

One stat that highlights his impact is his dominance in man coverage. According to Pride of Detroit’s Al Karsten, Anzalone led all linebackers (minimum 150 snaps) in man coverage snaps last season. The veteran linebacker himself acknowledged this rare skill set, boldly stating on X, “No other LB asked to do what I do.”
Pro Football Focus further supports his case, grading Anzalone with a 73.7 in coverage, ranking him 17th out of 189 linebackers. His ability to lock down opposing players in coverage is a rare asset at his position, making him one of the most versatile defenders on the team.

Alex Anzalone’s contract dilemma: Will Lions re-sign their defensive leader?

As Anzalone enters the final year of his three-year, $18 million deal, Detroit faces a tough decision. At 30 years old, he’s still playing at a high level, but the Lions must weigh the financial implications of keeping him long-term. With rising stars like Aidan Hutchinson due for massive extensions and the team looking to manage cap space efficiently, Anzalone’s future in Detroit is uncertain.
The ideal scenario for the Lions would be finding a way to retain their defensive leader while balancing their financial commitments. If they decide to part ways, Anzalone won’t be short on suitors. His ability to cover, lead, and adapt to various defensive schemes makes him a valuable asset for any contender looking to bolster their linebacker corps.
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For now, Anzalone remains a cornerstone of Detroit’s defense, and as the Lions chase championship glory, his presence could make all the difference. Whether his future remains in the Motor City or elsewhere, Alex Anzalone is far from just another linebacker.