In preparation for their Week 13 clash against the New Orleans Saints, the Detroit Lions returned to the practice field on Wednesday. Notably absent from the active roster during the media-accessible portion of practice was linebacker Alex Anzalone. This development raises concerns about his availability for the upcoming game. Anzalone’s potential absence would be a significant loss for the Lions, as he serves as one of their defensive captains.
The team, however, witnessed the return of offensive guard Jonah Jackson, who had been sidelined for the previous two games. Additionally, rookie quarterback Hendon Hooker was back in practice as the team officially opened his 21-day return window. Hooker, a third-round draft pick, had been on the non-football injury list, rehabilitating from a torn ACL sustained during his college career.
Coach Dan Campbell hinted earlier in the week that Anzalone might be sidelined for the Saints matchup due to an injury suffered in the Lions’ recent loss to the Green Bay Packers. The absence of Anzalone would necessitate the Lions relying on other defensive assets, though the team is not lacking in experience in that department.
Derrick Barnes, Jack Campbell, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin are all seasoned players, with Barnes and Reeves-Maybin being established veterans. Campbell and Rodriguez, despite being in the early stages of their careers, have already earned significant playing time. Campbell expressed confidence in the depth of the linebacker unit, emphasizing that they have all contributed meaningfully to the team in various capacities.
Acknowledging the challenge of replacing a player of Anzalone’s caliber, Campbell reiterated the team’s confidence in the linebacker group, expressing optimism that they will step up and perform admirably in the absence of the veteran linebacker. The Lions, with a focus on utilizing the strengths of their linebacker corps, remain optimistic about their defensive capabilities for the upcoming game.
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