Versatility on Display: Alex Anzalone Shows Why He’s Key for Lions

Alex Anzalone Proves He’s One of the NFL’s Best in Man Coverage
The Detroit Lions’ defensive scheme relies heavily on man coverage, and linebacker Alex Anzalone has shown he’s one of the best at executing it. According to Pro Football Focus, Anzalone led all NFL linebackers in man coverage snaps in 2024, playing man on 48.5% of his coverage reps. That’s no small feat, considering linebackers aren’t typically asked to handle that responsibility as much as defensive backs.

But it’s not just about playing man coverage—Anzalone is excelling at it. He shared a PFF chart highlighting his elite ability to prevent separation while maintaining a high on-ball grade. This reinforces just how crucial he is to the Lions’ defense, especially considering the drop-off in performance when he missed six games late last season with a broken forearm.

Now entering the final year of his three-year, $18.75 million contract, Anzalone’s future in Detroit beyond 2025 is uncertain. At 31, he’s still playing at a high level, but it remains to be seen how the Lions approach his contract situation moving forward. For now, though, there’s no question about his value in Aaron Glenn’s defense.