The next few weeks will be busier than ever for the Detroit Lions, with the NFL's free-agent tampering period beginning on Monday, March 9. One of their free agents is linebacker Alex Anzalone, who appears to be on his way out of town.
Anzalone has already been linked to the New York Jets, where former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is the head coach. Tensions have already been on the rise regarding his future, especially after Anzalone aimed at the Detroit social media team.
On Valentine's Day, the Lions' social media account posted clips of pass breakups from the defense but didn't feature Anzalone. He commented, "Had a career high (9 PDs) and not 1 made it. And other free agents were on the vid too…”
He then responded after that post, stating, "Some of you guys take my X (account) a lil too serious… love y'all tho lol."
Even after that, Anzalone continued to show love to the Lions after his slip-up on Monday. He was asked by a fan if he's still a Lion, to which he responded, "Forever and always."
Alex Anzalone Buries the Hatchet After Brief Lions Drama
As he followed up his messages, it's clear that Anzalone was trolling when he made the first comment regarding the pass breakup compilation video. At first, it seemed to be petty, but he's decided to squash it. Instead of letting speculation grow, he ended things early, showcasing that he'll need a Lion no matter what.
There's no telling how things will pan out in free agency, but there's a good chance that Anzalone has played his last down with the Lions. Typically, when there's smoke, there's fire. With all the rumors that Anzalone will be playing elsewhere in 2026, it seems like that's a true possibility, and it will come down to money.
Detroit is currently more than $9.9 million above the salary cap, according to OverTheCap, but that number could increase with some cuts and restructures. Nonetheless, guys like Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, Brian Branch, and Sam LaPorta are eligible for extensions. While not everyone will get one, those eventual deals could force the Lions to make early sacrifices, like letting Anazlone walk.
With Campbell being 25 years old at linebacker, he's the future at the position. Meanwhile, Anzalone will turn 32 years old in September. His prime days appear to be behind him, but that doesn't take away what he brought to the Lions.
Anzalone was a team captain for the last five seasons, compiling 490 total tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 32 quarterback hits, 33 pass deflections, and three interceptions. He was a veteran leader for this team and made it clear that he'll always be a Lion.
There seemed to be a hiccup, but things quickly changed on that front, leaving time to tell if the two sides can facilitate a path to keeping Anzalone in town for a while longer.