The Detroit Lions have experienced a lot of change this offseason. They are in the back half of their OTA practices before parting ways for a break before training camp.
The past two weeks, players have been getting some extra reps in, but one team captain has been absent. LB Alex Anzalone didn't report to OTAs, and many believe it's related to his contract. He's heading into the final year of a three-year, $18.3 million deal.
Even though Dan Campbell said he isn't worried about this situation, Anzalone's post online added fuel to the fire. On Instagram, he posted a workout video with the caption, "In life, you have options. Which will you choose?"
While that is a generic statement, it has fans thinking he's talking about his current deal.
Alex Anzalone Cryptic Made a Post on Instagram
Anzalone has been with the Lions for the past four seasons and has developed into a quality leader on the field and in the locker room.
Meanwhile, his impact on the field can't be underrated. In 57 career games with the Lions, Anzalone has compiled 395 total tackles, 22 TFLs, 26 QB hits, 24 pass breakups, and two interceptions.
Last season, he broke his forearm and missed six games before returning in January for the playoffs. He's tough as nails and fits the culture that Campbell has built over the last couple of years.
While OTAs are just voluntary, Anzalone's absence is definitely noteworthy. The Lions are skipping mandatory minicamp this year, so when OTAs wrap up on June 5, the next time everyone will be together comes in late July during training camp.
Whether or not Anzalone holds out then remains to be seen, but it's clear he's looking for a new deal. He has been a quality player for Detroit, yet no deal has been agreed to, and he's staying away from the team.