The Detroit Lions‘ most recent NFL season was nothing short of outstanding, thanks in large part to the high-level performances from several players under Dan Campbell’s leadership. That’s why many believe their contributions deserve to be recognized financially — a factor that inevitably impacts their future with the team.
Alex Anzalone is one of the key pillars of the team’s defense, though in recent statements he expressed dissatisfaction with his current contract situation. Despite that — and being unable to take part in training camp due to injury — the linebacker made it clear he hopes to retire as a Detroit Lion.
“It’s kind of like you mentioned, I put so much into my time here and being a four-time captain and a teammate and the city, and just living here,” Anzalone said, via Benjamin Raven of MLive.com. “You can list all the reasons. It’s just important to me. I love this place. I want that opportunity.
“I feel like I’ve done that a lot [to play through injuries] through my four years here. I’m just in a situation where it’s, you want to be rewarded for that. Or at least in some regard, yeah.”
Alex Anzalone #34 of the Detroit Lions warms up prior to their game against the Los Angeles Rams at Ford Field on September 08, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.
“I want to retire a Lion. I want that opportunity. That’s how I feel,” Anzalone finally concluded. “I’m disappointed. Let’s just say that. Disappointed.”
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Preparations underway for the Lions
While most NFL franchises have kicked off preparations for the upcoming season, the Detroit Lions were no exception. However, they were forced to move forward without the participation of Alex Anzalone, who remains sidelined due to injury.
Dan Campbell will be without one of the most important players for Jared Goff, as the linebacker revealed to the press that he doesn’t want to rush the recovery process: “just taking this day to day right now.”
“I hope. Let’s see. I have no clue [if he will practice during preseason and training camp],” the linebacker also added. “We have a chance to win a Super Bowl. I want to be part of it.”
The Lions’ early challenges
With the main goal of matching or even surpassing last season’s performance, these will be the first five games the Lions, led by Jared Goff, will face in the upcoming season:
- @ Green Bay Packers, September 7th – Lambeau Field
- vs Chicago Bears, September 14th
- @ Baltimore Ravens, September 22nd – M&T Bank Stadium
- vs Cleveland Browns, September 28th
- @ Cincinnati Bengals, October 5th – Paycor Stadium
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