Linebacker Alex Anzalone has been a key yet often overlooked contributor to the Detroit Lions’ recent success, and now the experienced defender is reportedly seeking a pay bump as he enters the last year of his contract. Drafted in the third round out of Florida, Anzalone found stability in Detroit and delivered solid performances over the past two years. In 2024, he played and started in 10 games, posting one sack, 63 tackles, seven tackles for loss, five quarterback hits, and a 66.9 Pro Football Focus grade—ranking him 35th out of 84 eligible linebackers.
During a recent media appearance, the linebacker expressed dissatisfaction with his current salary and disappointment in the Lions’ approach to contract talks. While a trade request hasn’t been formally made, it’s important to note that Detroit may not have the flexibility to meet Anzalone’s desired price tag. While the front office likely plans to keep him for a playoff push in 2025, four teams could emerge as suitors if the season takes a downturn in Detroit.
Pete Carroll became known for his defensive philosophy during his run with the Seattle Seahawks, and he’s expected to carry that mindset to the Las Vegas Raiders. Carroll, now leading an older but competitive roster, clearly believes in winning now after acquiring quarterback Geno Smith and drafting running back Ashton Jeanty in Round 1. Though the Raiders’ linebacking corps isn’t completely ineffective, it leaves much to be desired. Anzalone wouldn’t be a long-term fix, but at 30, he’d add savvy alongside veterans like Germaine Pratt and Elandon Roberts.
Likewise, Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers are trying to catch the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West. After a quick turnaround from the disorganized Brandon Staley years, Harbaugh got the team back into the postseason. While improvements to the run game and offensive line are expected, Harbaugh could use a veteran field general like Anzalone to stabilize the middle level of the defense. He’d serve as a strong complement to developing talent like Daiyan Henley.
The Carolina Panthers may have the league’s weakest linebacking unit—and cutting Josey Jewell only made matters worse. Still, in the soft NFC South, they have a path to contention. Bryce Young took a leap forward last season, the offensive line looks formidable, and the defense has been upgraded with additions like Tre’Von Moehrig, Tershawn Wharton, and rookies Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen. A deal for Anzalone could add leadership and consistency to Carolina’s playoff push.
The Indianapolis Colts face a must-win season in 2025 if Shane Steichen hopes to stay employed. While most offseason buzz surrounds the quarterback situation, the defense lacks a proven starter to line up next to Zaire Franklin. Anzalone could fill that hole with his veteran experience and toughness, potentially helping the Colts stay competitive in the AFC and secure a much-needed Wild Card berth.
