By Moses Joshua 
Lions’ head coach weighs Anzalone’s readiness versus long-term goals
Balancing Readiness and Risk
The Detroit Lions find themselves in a critical moment as they prepare for a decisive Week 18 clash with the Minnesota Vikings. Among the many pressing questions is the status of linebacker and defensive captain Alex Anzalone, who has been sidelined since Week 11 with a broken forearm. While Anzalone has returned to practice, both he and head coach Dan Campbell acknowledge that his readiness remains uncertain.
Anzalone, speaking to reporters on Thursday, shared his concerns about regaining full speed and contact confidence. “I haven’t tackled anyone to the ground,” Anzalone admitted. “I’ve done some drills and tried to simulate it as much as possible. It’s just one of those things—it’s like, ‘How do you feel?’”
Campbell’s Criteria for Activation
Head coach Dan Campbell mirrored Anzalone’s cautious tone, emphasizing the need for the linebacker to feel comfortable and capable of playing at full speed. “He’s earned enough to be able to practice today,” Campbell stated on Friday, adding, “No setbacks. He’s going to go out there and move a little bit. That’s good.”
Campbell outlined the team’s standard process for reintroducing players. “What we really like to do is get these guys worked in before you throw them into the fire,” he said. “We try to do that with as many of our guys as we can—get them comfortable with a week of practice, then they’re ready for the following week.”
The Lions are keenly aware of the stakes, both in this pivotal matchup against the Vikings and in the postseason. “We want him. Would love to have him. But we want to be smart, too,” Campbell added. “We’ve got a playoff game after this. Just trying to be right by him and by us.”
Depth Stepping Up
While Anzalone’s status hangs in the balance, the Lions have relied on other players to step up in his absence. Jack Campbell has taken on an every-down role, leading the defensive huddle effectively. Ben Niemann has also seen increased action, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin returned to action last week after a two-month absence.
Trevor Nowaske continues to handle the SAM linebacker role with Derrick Barnes on injured reserve. This depth has been crucial for the Lions, but having Anzalone back would be a significant boost, especially as the team looks ahead to the playoffs.
Other Practice Updates
The Lions were without three players during Friday’s practice: running backs Craig Reynolds and David Montgomery, and cornerback Emmanuel Moseley. Reynolds, who played a key role last week, has been present at practice all week. Montgomery, recovering from a knee injury, has missed two consecutive games. Moseley, battling illness, has not practiced at all this week.
With so much on the line in Sunday’s game, the Lions are leaving no stone unturned. Whether Anzalone takes the field or not, Detroit is poised to give their best effort in the quest for an NFC North title and the top seed in the playoffs.