Detroit Lions linebacker and team captain Alex Anzalone will be sidelined for six to eight weeks after suffering a broken forearm during Sunday’s 52-6 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed postgame that Anzalone, in his fourth season as a captain, sustained the injury while helping safety Brian Branch tackle Jaguars running back Travis Etienne. After the play, Anzalone was seen holding his left forearm and was escorted off the field by trainers. Campbell later stated, “It looks like he broke the forearm, so he’s going to be out six to eight weeks.”
Anzalone expressed his gratitude for fans’ support in a social media post, acknowledging the frustration of injury but focusing on the positive aspects of his career. “Thank you everyone for the well wishes! As an athlete, a lot of times you think, ‘Why did this have to happen?’ But I like to think about all the countless reps something bad didn’t happen. I’m beyond blessed! I’ll be back in no time, fresh legs and all.”
The Lions have faced multiple defensive injuries this season, including to key players such as defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, defensive end Marcus Davenport, and linebacker Derrick Barnes. Additionally, reserve linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin has been placed on injured reserve.
Lions cornerback Amik Robertson acknowledged the challenge of losing a leader like Anzalone but expressed confidence in the team’s depth. “It’s always hard losing a player like that, man. But we’ve got younger guys who can step up. If we’ve got guys out there playing for one another, I think we’ll be fine.”