With the Detroit Lions kicking off training camp, veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone has drawn attention—not for a holdout, but due to a nagging hamstring issue.
Head coach Dan Campbell was quick to extinguish speculation that Anzalone was sitting out over contract frustrations. The veteran had indeed crushed the team’s conditioning test and fully reported to camp, reinforcing his dedication .
Instead, Campbell confirmed that Anzalone is resting a hamstring strain, explaining:
> “It’s a hamstring (injury), so we’ll see where it goes. I don’t see him practicing today (Monday), I don’t.”
This marks a stark contrast to rumors of a potential hold-in protest amid contract uncertainty. Campbell emphatically added,
> No way… I refuse to believe that .
While Anzalone recovers, fellow linebacker Zach Cunningham, signed in May, is getting first-team reps. Campbell praised his veteran instincts and fluidity:
> “He’s pretty instinctive… He’s fluid, man. Sometimes it’s effortless.”
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🔍 Why This Matters:
Anzalone enters his final contract year, fueling fan speculation about his status.
When healthy, he’s a cornerstone of Detroit’s linebacker corps.
The team now leans on depth and veteran presence in the front seven, briefing the flexibility of players like Cunningham.
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Bottom Line:
Alex Anzalone isn’t pulling a camp protest—just dealing with a hamstring tweak after clearing conditioning. His absence is temporary, and the Lions are confident he’ll return to full form soon.
Anzalone’s Absence Sparks Rumors — But It’s a Hamstring, Not a Holdout
