By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions are set to undergo significant changes on defense this season, with former linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard stepping in as the new defensive coordinator following Aaron Glenn’s departure to become head coach of the New York Jets. Last season, the Lions’ defense displayed moments of excellence, positioning itself among the NFL’s elite until injuries took their toll.
Amid swirling NFL draft rumors, veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone, a former Florida Gators standout and a fan favorite in Detroit, took to social media on Wednesday to underscore his value to the team. Anzalone retweeted a video highlighting his game performances and statistics, revealing that he led the league in man coverage snaps among players with at least 150 such snaps. This statistic underscores his versatility and the unique demands of his role. Accompanying the retweet, Anzalone asserted, “No other LB asked to do what I do.”
The timing of Anzalone’s post is noteworthy, given that the 2025 NFL Draft is less than a month away. While the Lions have been linked to potential linebacker prospects, Anzalone remains a pivotal figure in the team’s defensive plans under Sheppard and head coach Dan Campbell. In March 2023, he solidified his commitment to Detroit by signing a three-year, $18.75 million contract extension, ensuring his presence on the roster for the foreseeable future.
As the Lions navigate this transitional period, Anzalone’s leadership and adaptability will be instrumental in shaping the defense’s success in the upcoming season.