Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Mon 2/12/24 10:28 AM

Anzalone recorded 129 tackles with three sacks and six passes defended over 16 games in 2023.
EDGE Analysis
While a fringe top-24 linebacker in IDP formats, Anzalone recorded career highs in tackles, solo tackles (85) and sacks as one of the most important pieces of a Detroit defense that made huge improvements in run defense. One year after finishing bottom-four in rushing yards allowed per carry and per game, this unit finished top-three in each of these categories and top-two in runs of 10-plus yards allowed (36) and runs of 20-plus yards allowed (five). With Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill also under contract in 2024, the key pieces are in place for both Anzalone and the Lions run defense to remain productive in 2024.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Thu 1/25/24 4:24 PM

Anzalone (shoulder/ribs) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.
EDGE Analysis
Anzalone has now began the Lions' week of practice with two consecutive limited sessions (Wednesday was a walkthrough) as he continues to battle three fractured ribs and a sprained AC joint in his shoulder. The 29-year-old linebacker will likely carry an injury designation into the NFC Championship Game unless he can practice in full Friday.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Wed 1/24/24 6:06 PM

Anzalone (ribs) was a limited participant in the Lions' walkthrough Wednesday.
EDGE Analysis
Anzalone was limited Wednesday as he continues to play through fractured ribs as well as a sprained AC joint. While the 2017 third-round pick should be good to go for Sunday's NFC Championship game, Malcolm Rodriguez would see increased playing time if Anzalone ends up being out.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Tue 1/23/24 1:09 PM

Anzalone played through a sprained AC joint in his shoulder and three fractured ribs during Sunday's divisional-round win over the Buccaneers, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
EDGE Analysis
Anzalone actually suffered the rib injury during Detroit's Week 18 win over the Vikings and has been playing through it for each of the team's playoff wins this season. The veteran linebacker will likely appear on the team's injury report throughout the week, but considering he's managed to play through the pain, it's unlikely he would stop now. Anzalone should suit up against the 49ers in the NFC Championship game this Sunday.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Mon 1/1/24 3:16 PM

Anzalone had eight tackles (five solo) in Saturday's 20-19 loss to the Cowboys.
EDGE Analysis
It was the third time in four games that Anzalone registered eight-plus tackles in a game. It was also the third straight game he played every single defensive snap, as he finished second on the Lions in tackles behind corner Cameron Sutton. Anzalone is up to 120 tackles (77 solo) on the year and is five away from matching the career-high figure he set last season.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Mon 12/18/23 8:28 PM

Anzalone logged 12 tackles (seven solo) and a pass deflection in Detroit's 42-17 win over the Broncos on Saturday.
EDGE Analysis
Anzalone compiled double-digit tackles for the third time this season in addition to leading the team in tackles. The 29-year-old is currently on pace to surpass his career-high tackle mark (125) and will look to add to his total during the team's upcoming matchup versus the Vikings.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Mon 12/11/23 8:11 PM

Anzalone registered nine tackles (five solo) during the Lions' 28-13 loss to the Bears on Sunday.
EDGE Analysis
Anzalone still produced a solid outing in spite of the loss as his nine tackles were good for second most on the team. The 29-year-old has now compiled 96 tackles (63 solo), including three sacks, through 12 games played.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Wed 12/6/23 6:02 PM

Anzalone (hand) logged a full practice Wednesday.
EDGE Analysis
Anzalone appears ready to go for Week 14 against the Bears after logging three consecutive DNPs last week and ultimately sitting out Sunday's win over the Saints. The return of the veteran linebacker should be good news for the Lions' defense, especially with Malcolm Rodriguez still nursing an ankle injury.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Sat 12/2/23 1:17 PM

Anzalone (hand) has been downgraded to out for Sunday's game in New Orleans.
EDGE Analysis
No surprise here, as Anzalone was unable to practice all week and was dealt a doubtful designation on the Lions' final injury report. In his absence, Malcolm Rodriguez is the likely candidate to fill in at middle linebacker.

Alex Anzalone
LB DET (5)
Fri 12/1/23 5:15 PM

Anzalone (hand) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Saints, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.
EDGE Analysis
The veteran linebacker was unable to practice all week, so it's no surprise that he'll likely be inactive for Sunday's contest. Anzalone has been extremely productive through Detroit's first 11 games, as he's recorded 87 total tackles, including five tackles for loss and 3.0 sacks. Assuming Anzalone can't suit up this weekend, Malcolm Rodriguez will likely serve as the Lions' top middle linebacker.