Live Update from Detroit: Alex Anzalone Set to Return Tonight
It’s been seven long weeks since Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone suffered a broken left forearm against the Jacksonville Jaguars, sidelining him during a critical stretch. Tonight, in a pivotal matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, the Lions’ defensive leader is expected to make his much-anticipated return.
Anzalone, who was activated from IR on Saturday, participated in practice earlier this week and was officially listed as questionable for tonight’s game. However, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport provided clarity this morning, confirming the veteran linebacker’s status.
“Alex Anzalone is coming back tonight,” Rapoport reported. “One of the play-making linebackers on the Lions, really one of the leaders of their defense. He is a madman on the field. You watch him play—this guy does it all. Now, he’s going to play just a couple of weeks after fracturing his forearm. Was officially activated yesterday and will play tonight. My understanding is they’re gonna monitor his snaps, and he will wear a special pad on his forearm to protect him. But he is in.”
A Bold Comeback Despite Risks
Anzalone acknowledged the challenge of returning without being 100%. The linebacker revealed he now has a steel plate in his forearm and was seen during Thursday’s practice sporting a brace or cast. Rapoport also confirmed he will wear protective gear during the game.
On Instagram this morning, Anzalone appeared to confirm his return with a bold caption:
“Everyone wants to be a dog until you have to do some dog sh*.”*
The post, paired with the fiery energy fans have come to expect from Anzalone, signals his determination to step back onto the field despite the risks.
The Lions Need Their Captain
The Lions’ defense has struggled significantly in Anzalone’s absence. As noted by Justin Rogers of the Detroit Football Network, the team’s defensive DVOA and overall performance took a nosedive without their captain. The Lions allowed 31 or more points in three of their last four games, underscoring the void left by their leader.
“Lions’ defense started a steady decline after Anzalone went out,” Rogers stated. “Getting back their captain should provide an unquestionable boost.”
Even with Anzalone on a snap count, his presence is expected to galvanize the team. Wearing the Lions’ all-black uniforms for tonight’s critical showdown, No. 34 will aim to energize the defense and lead Detroit into what many are calling their most important game of the season.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach kickoff.
