The Detroit Lions’ defense has taken a significant blow with the loss of Alex Anzalone to a wrist injury, and speculation is mounting over how the team will replace him for the remainder of the season. Anzalone, who is expected to miss the rest of the regular season due to a broken wrist, had been a key player in the Lions’ defensive scheme, and his absence will certainly be felt.
As a result, some analysts are recommending that the Lions explore options on the free-agent market, with one notable suggestion being the signing of former Miami Dolphins linebacker David Long.
Mike Moraitis of *The Sporting News* suggests that the Detroit Lions should strongly consider signing former Miami Dolphins linebacker David Long to fill the void left by Alex Anzalone’s injury. Anzalone’s broken wrist has left a significant gap in the Lions’ defense, and Long could be an intriguing option to step in.
Long was waived by the Dolphins after struggling in the final year of his two-year, $11 million contract. Despite his departure from Miami, he brings a wealth of experience and several qualities that could benefit the Lions’ defense. Long started all 17 games for the Dolphins in 2023 and six out of eight games in 2024 before falling out of favor.
A sixth-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in 2019, Long earned a reputation as a hard-hitting, aggressive linebacker with impressive sideline-to-sideline speed and a knack for rushing the passer. While his coverage skills are not his strongest suit, his ability to defend the run and create plays behind the line of scrimmage could add a physical presence to Detroit’s defense.
A Change of Scenery for Long
David Long’s release from Miami, as explained by Kyle Crabbs of the Locked on Dolphins Podcast, was due to a combination of factors: a hamstring injury and a decline in his run defense that resulted in a loss of starting duties. Despite these setbacks, Long’s talent and aggressive playing style make him an intriguing option for a team like the Lions, who could benefit from his energy and physicality.
Moraitis argues that a change of scenery could be just what Long needs. He believes that Long’s playing style could mesh well with Detroit’s aggressive defensive unit and that the linebacker could find new success in a system led by head coach Dan Campbell. With the Lions performing well this season and boasting a strong team culture, Long might thrive in Detroit and provide immediate support to a defense already playing at a high level.
A Potential Upgrade for the Lions
The Lions’ defense has been one of their strong suits this season, and replacing Alex Anzalone with a player like David Long could provide a significant boost. Although Long is not without his flaws, his speed, physicality, and experience in a starting role make him an attractive option. General manager Brad Holmes could see this as an opportunity to add depth to the linebacking corps and keep the defense competitive during Anzalone’s absence.
While the Lions are still in a good position to contend for the No. 1 seed in the NFC, the loss of a key player like Anzalone could affect their championship aspirations. Signing Long would give them the chance to add another impact player and potentially strengthen the defense as they push for a Super Bowl run.
A Smart Move to Consider
Given David Long’s pedigree and the void left by Alex Anzalone’s injury, it makes sense for the Lions to consider adding him to their roster. With their Super Bowl aspirations this season, strengthening the linebacker corps could be a key move to keep them in championship contention. Signing Long could be a low-risk, high-reward addition—one that allows Detroit to enhance its defense without a significant financial commitment.
Given the Lions’ strong team culture and coaching staff under Dan Campbell, Long could quickly adapt and find his rhythm. His aggressive playing style and physicality would complement the defense’s current strengths, and he could become a valuable asset down the stretch as the team pushes for a deep playoff run.
