The Alex Anzalone era is over in Detroit, now that hes’ gone, what is next at linebacker?

Anzalone is no more in Detroit

Mike Payton — Detroit Lions Beat Writer
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This is one that we’ve been expecting for some time now. Alex Anzalone is no longer a member of the Detroit Lions. On Monday, it was reported that he plans to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Why this was expected and what’s next for the Lions at linebacker?

When the Lions did not give Anzalone a new contract during training camp last summer, the writing was on the wall with this one. Now he joins Todd Bowles in Tampa instead of Aaron Glenn with the Jets or Ben Johnson with the Bears, some thought might happen.

In terms of what is next for the Lions, it’s all about getting younger at the position. There could be some changes being made all around. Derrick Barnes could be on the move to thye weak side where Anzalone has been for a while. We know that the Lions have spoken to linebackers at the NFL Combine about playing SAM linebacker, where Barnes has been. Right now, the draft makes the most sense for Anzalone’s replacement. In case you haven’t noticed, we really like Pitt’s Kyle Louis for that spot.

In terms of free agency, the Lions probably won’t get too involved in the linebacker spots there with the offensive line expected to be the main objective for Brad Holmes and company.

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