After spending the past four seasons with the Detroit Lions, top impending 2026 free agent Alex Anzalone could request a trade before the 2025 campaign. According to reports, the linebacker is not happy about the contract negotiations, and he’s uncertain where his future holds in Detroit, which could trigger a trade before the season begins. Originally selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, the former Florida product hasn’t been able to stay healthy after nursing a forearm injury back in Week 11’s victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars last year. Anzalone was able to return in the regular season finale, but he hasn’t been the same player in recent memory despite recording 56 stops, including seven tackles for a loss and four pass deflections.
It’s interesting to see what the Lions do in this situation since they probably will have to think about investing in an athlete who can’t stay healthy. It wouldn’t be logical for Detroit to dish out a new contract to Anzalone, especially when he’s dealing with a knee injury and has yet to practice. Anzalone wants to return to Detroit since he feels he’s been one keystone players in this defensive unit, and he has, but the injury issues are what might be stopping the team from negotiating. The linebacker isn’t looking to hold out, but it doesn’t mean Lions won’t consider a trade before coming to terms with a release, so here are four teams that could pursue him.
Top Lions Star Alex Anzalone Could Request a Trade? – 4 Suitors Emerge
Next Possible Fits
Baltimore Ravens
Since the Baltimore Ravens lost Jadeveon Clowney in free agency during the 2024 offseason, the team’s defense hasn’t been the same. Odafe Oweh, Kyle Van Noy and David Ojabo are all heading into the contract years this upcoming campaign, so they will need to figure out who will step up. However, depth continues to be an issue for a team that is always in the thick of a playoff race. If they want to be true contenders, they could take a risk on Anzalone to give some stability in the pass-rushing unit.
Despite drafting Mike Green, the Ravens need a proven defender to get after the quarterback. Anzalone might be Van Noy 2.0, but since the team doesn’t have a ton of cap space, they might be better off signing Oweh to a long-term deal, so they have a capable linebacker that lasts. Anzalone won’t drastically change this defense around, but building an old-school style defense could help them finally win a championship.
Los Angeles Chargers
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers are in dire need of a pass-rusher, just like they are for a wide receiver on offense. Khalil Mack and Bud Dupree can’t single-handedly carry this defense to get after the quarterback. Anzalone is a massive upgrade over Joey Bosa since parting ways with him this offseason.
Washington Commanders
Just like the Chargers, the Washington Commanders are in the same situation, even though they signed Von Miller on a one-year deal. Bobby Wagner is coming back for another season, so if Anzalone is available in free agency next offseason, the Commanders could target him to pair with Frankie Luvu and Dominique Hampton.
Carolina Panthers
After rebuilding its offense, the Carolina Panthers are finally upgrading the defense, but they ran into a few problems right before the preseason. The Panthers parted ways with Josey Jewell and Jadeveon Clowney this offseason, so they need an answer immediately. Detroit might not trade within the NFC unless Dave Canales has an offer in his sleeve to pull it off.
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