The Detroit Lions have taken a patient, methodical approach to rebuilding their defense under general manager Brad Holmes. Once among the league’s worst, the unit has steadily improved over the past three seasons, helping the team become a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Linebacker Alex Anzalone has played a key role in that transformation, starting all 57 games he’s suited up for during his four seasons in Detroit. However, a recent report suggests the team could consider moving on from the 30-year-old veteran before the season begins.
According to Spotrac, Anzalone is a surprise candidate to be traded, as he enters the final year of his three-year, $18 million deal. Sports Illustrated’s Emmett Matasovsky noted that while a trade is unlikely, there’s still a case to be made. Anzalone is currently the oldest linebacker on the roster, and with the team bringing in Grant Stuard via free agency and re-signing Derrick Barnes to a multi-year deal, Detroit has added depth at the position.
Still, Matasovsky emphasized Anzalone’s importance, pointing out his strong performance in pass coverage and leadership in the locker room. The defense noticeably struggled in his absence last season, particularly when opponents had big games through the air while he was sidelined with a broken forearm.
Though the Lions haven’t publicly hinted at trading Anzalone, GM Brad Holmes did tease the possibility of another major move in the lead-up to the NFL Draft. Holding the No. 28 pick in the first round, Holmes said the team is open to moving up or down the board depending on how things shake out.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, Holmes noted that earlier in his tenure, the roster was full of gaps that needed filling. Now, with a much stronger foundation, the Lions can focus on drafting the best player available rather than chasing specific needs.
“We needed everything back then,” Holmes said in an April 17 press conference via ESPN. “Now we’ve got a lot of good players, but that doesn’t mean we’re done looking for more.”
Holmes also said he hasn’t yet received calls about trading the team’s first-round pick, but he’s open to listening.
“We’re not going to force a pick to fill a position,” he added. “We’re just going to keep looking for really good football players.”
When asked for a hint about what the Lions might do in the draft, Holmes kept things light.
“Get your popcorn ready and enjoy it,” he said.
