The Detroit Lions could be facing a major defensive decision this offseason, as veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone is emerging as a legitimate free-agency flight risk.
According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, Anzalone is expected to draw strong interest around the NFL if he reaches the open market in March. While Detroit would like to retain the longtime defensive leader, Fowler notes that a return is far from guaranteed.
“Anzalone has been a fixture for the Lions in the Dan Campbell era, and his game is more respected in league circles than in fan or media circles,” Fowler wrote on January 8. “The early feedback: Anzalone’s return is a 50/50 proposition.”
Alex Anzalone’s Impact on the Lions Defense
Anzalone, 31, has been a defensive cornerstone for Detroit since signing as a free agent in 2021 after four seasons with the New Orleans Saints.
Over his five years with the Lions, Anzalone has:
Started all 73 games he’s appeared in
Recorded 490 total tackles
Added 26 tackles for loss
Posted 33 pass breakups
Tallied 32 QB hits, nine sacks, three interceptions, and two fumble recoveries
During the 2025 season, Anzalone remained productive, finishing with:
95 tackles
Four tackles for loss
Nine pass breakups
Six quarterback hits
2.5 sacks
One interception
Contract History and Free Agency Outlook
Anzalone signed a three-year, $18 million extension in 2023, but played the 2025 season on a restructured, fully guaranteed $6.25 million deal after seeking a new contract last offseason. Over his career, he has earned nearly $26 million.
With free agency approaching, Spotrac projects Anzalone’s market value at $15.2 million over two years, or $7.6 million annually, making him affordable—but not cheap—for Detroit.
Lions Salary Cap Outlook and Tough Offseason Choices
The Lions are projected to be just $5 million over the cap for 2026, leaving room for flexibility. That space could expand significantly if Detroit moves on from left tackle Taylor Decker.
ESPN’s Aaron Schatz predicts the Lions will release Decker if he doesn’t retire, citing age, injury history, and declining performance. A post–June 1 designation would:
Save $18.2 million in each of the next two seasons
Create minimal dead-cap charges
That savings alone would be enough to re-sign Anzalone at market value.
Competing Roster Priorities Could Cost Detroit
Despite the financial path to keep Anzalone, the Lions face multiple roster needs, including:
Rebuilding an offensive line that regressed in 2025
Adding at least one edge rusher, especially with Al-Quadin Muhammad headed to free agency
Balancing long-term defensive investments
With Anzalone expected to test free agency, Detroit must decide whether to prioritize linebacker continuity or allocate resources elsewhere.
Bottom line: The Lions can afford Alex Anzalone—but whether they choose to may define their defensive identity in 2026.
