By Sunday 
Loyalty, leadership, and a little bit of limbo
In the unpredictable world of NFL contracts, even veteran leadership doesn’t always buy you peace of mind. Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone, a four-time captain and locker room staple, is finding that out the hard way.
With training camp underway in Allen Park, Anzalone is making headlines—but not for the usual reasons. He’s been absent from practice due to a hamstring injury, sure. But more significantly, he’s become the center of a “weird” and somewhat frustrating contract situation that doesn’t seem to reflect his loyalty or performance.
“I want to retire a Lion. I want that opportunity. That’s how I feel,” Anzalone told reporters. “I’m disappointed. Let’s just say that. Disappointed.”
More than just a linebacker
Let’s be clear—Anzalone isn’t some replaceable cog in the Lions’ defensive machine. The 30-year-old vet has poured heart, soul, and body into the franchise, even playing through injuries during pivotal moments.
In fact, it was just last season that Anzalone returned from a broken forearm to help lock down Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson in a must-win game. Across 2022 and 2023, he posted 254 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and 14 tackles for loss. He’s been the perfect WILL linebacker next to Jack Campbell, acting as a field general for Dan Campbell’s defense.
So when a guy like that says he feels underpaid, you listen.
“You can list all the reasons,” Anzalone said. “I love this place. I want that opportunity.”
The money talk (or lack of it)
Anzalone currently ranks 35th among NFL linebackers in average salary, set to make $6 million in base this season. Meanwhile, teammate Derrick Barnes recently secured a three-year, $24 million extension after bouncing back from a knee injury.
Alex’s reaction? Pure class:
“That’s awesome. Just seeing one of your best friends… take care of his wife and his baby boy—it’s cool to see.”
But make no mistake—Anzalone wants that same stability. He’s made it known that contract talks started “a while ago,” yet here we are.
As for any details, the linebacker wasn’t giving much.
“You got to ask Dan and Brad,” he said, referring to head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes.
Still standing on the sideline
Despite the contract drama and the hamstring injury (which apparently flared up during a conditioning test he “crushed”), Anzalone has been present at camp—watching from the sidelines, helmet off, visibly engaged. He’s not walking away. Not yet.
“I mean, I’m just taking this day to day right now,” he said. “We have a chance to win a Super Bowl. I want to be part of it.”
If that doesn’t say “team guy,” what does?
Final Thought:
In a league where roster turnover is constant and loyalty is often a one-way street, Anzalone’s story reminds us that some players don’t just wear the uniform—they become part of the franchise’s identity. Let’s hope the Lions recognize that before it’s too late.