The Detroit Lions announced Monday that they have placed linebacker Alex Anzalone on injured reserve after he suffered a broken left forearm during Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The injury is expected to sideline Anzalone for six to eight weeks, dealing a significant blow to the Lions’ defense.
To address the team’s depth at linebacker, Detroit signed veteran linebacker David Long to their practice squad. The sixth-year player brings experience to a position group already dealing with the absence of Jalen Reeves-Maybin, who is out for at least two more games due to a neck injury.
Anzalone’s Impact and Absence
Anzalone has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ defense this season, contributing significantly both as a leader and playmaker. The 29-year-old linebacker had recorded 73 total tackles, three sacks, and two interceptions through the first ten games of the season. His presence in the middle of the defense will be sorely missed as the team enters a critical stretch of the season.
“Alex has been huge for us on and off the field,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell. “Losing him is tough, but it’s an opportunity for others to step up and fill that role.”
Adjustments to the Linebacker Corps
With Anzalone sidelined and Reeves-Maybin unavailable, the Lions will rely heavily on their remaining linebackers. Rookie Jack Campbell, a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is expected to take on an expanded role, while Malcolm Rodriguez, Ben Niemann, Trevor Nowaske, and Ezekiel Turner will also see increased snaps.
The addition of David Long provides the Lions with much-needed depth. Long, who spent five seasons with the Los Angeles Rams before a brief stint with Miami, has proven himself as a reliable defender, amassing 230 career tackles and six sacks. While he starts on the practice squad, his experience could quickly earn him a spot on the active roster.
The Lions (7-3) are in a strong position as they push toward the playoffs but will need to adapt to these injuries to maintain their momentum. Anzalone’s timeline for recovery means he could potentially return for the postseason, offering hope for a reinforcement if Detroit can secure a playoff berth.
In the meantime, the team will focus on getting the most out of their remaining defensive core. “We’re confident in the guys we have,” said Campbell. “They’ve all been preparing for this, and now it’s time for them to show what they can do.”
The Lions are set to face the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving Day, a divisional matchup that will test their ability to overcome these defensive setbacks.