Why the Lions Must Act Fast to Retain Veteran Leader Alex Anzalone
The Detroit Lions are facing mounting salary cap pressures due to previously negotiated contract extensions for key stars like Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, and David Montgomery. While those deals were cleverly structured to delay larger cap hits until 2026, the Lions now find themselves in a tricky financial spot with numerous contracts—including linebacker Alex Anzalone’s—set to expire after the 2025 season.
Despite the looming cap challenges, Detroit cannot afford to let Anzalone test free agency. The 31-year-old linebacker has become a crucial part of the Lions’ defense and locker room culture. Originally from Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, and a standout at the University of Florida, Anzalone was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. It was during his time in New Orleans that he earned the respect of then-assistant coach Dan Campbell, who later brought him to Detroit in 2021.
Anzalone quickly made his mark in the Motor City. Signed initially on a one-year deal, he immediately secured a starting role and brought intensity and leadership to a young defense. Over his first two seasons with the Lions, he racked up over 200 tackles, along with multiple pass breakups and a couple of sacks.
In 2023, Anzalone signed a three-year deal worth $18.75 million. That contract expires after the 2025 season, and the Lions must prioritize an extension. Anzalone’s production has only improved with time—his 2023 campaign was his best yet, tallying 129 tackles, three sacks, and six passes defended. Despite missing part of the 2024 season with a forearm injury, he remained on pace to match his previous season’s numbers and continued to anchor the defense when healthy.
Statistically and qualitatively, Anzalone ranks among the NFL’s elite at his position. He recorded the fourth-most pass defenses among linebackers and was a top-five pressure generator, according to Pro Football Focus. He is one of just two linebackers in 2022 to post at least 125 tackles, a sack, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery—a rare all-around performance.
But Anzalone’s impact isn’t just about numbers. He’s the vocal leader on the field, responsible for defensive play calls, and a role model in the locker room. His presence raises the level of play for those around him, a fact that was evident in Week 18 of the 2024 season against the Vikings. After returning from injury, he delivered a standout performance and helped ignite a dominant defensive effort that shut down Minnesota in crucial red-zone moments.
The financial side only underscores the urgency. In 2025, Anzalone’s contract carries a cap hit of just over $7.25 million, including a void year payment of $1.2 million in 2026—money that will count against the cap even if he’s no longer on the roster. Letting him walk would not only leave a leadership void but also cost the team valuable cap flexibility.
Given his experience, leadership, and consistent performance, Alex Anzalone deserves the opportunity to finish his career in Detroit. He’s more than just a linebacker—he’s a cornerstone of the Lions’ defense and a mentor to younger players. Losing him would be a major setback, both on and off the field.
