Detroit Lions Facing Potential Roster Changes

The Detroit Lions are currently navigating a period of transition as they prepare for the upcoming season. One of the most significant losses has been veteran offensive tackle Dan Skipper, who has officially retired from the NFL. The team is also waiting to hear from offensive tackle Taylor Decker, who may follow in Skipper’s footsteps and retire as well. These developments have sparked speculation about further changes within the Lions’ roster.

While the team is expected to make several adjustments, the likelihood of another veteran player leaving is increasing. According to multiple reports, linebacker Alex Anzalone could be the next to depart. This potential move adds to the uncertainty surrounding the Lions’ defense as they look to rebuild and strengthen their lineup.

Anzalone Linked to the Jets

One of the most intriguing possibilities involves Anzalone joining the New York Jets. The Jets are now coached by Aaron Glenn, who previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Lions. This connection has raised questions about whether Anzalone will follow his former coach to New York.

NFL Insider Tony Pauline reported that the odds are high that Anzalone will join the Jets for the 2026 season. He noted that the idea of Lions players following Glenn to the Jets is not new, but recent discussions suggest that Anzalone is a strong candidate for a reunion.

Pauline explained:

“Anzalone is not expected to return to Detroit, and he’s close with ‘AG’ and wants to reunite with his former defensive coordinator,” he said. “A reunion is more likely, given the Jets’ need at linebacker, as Anzalone brings the talent, leadership, and intensity the team needs at the position. Is Anzalone concerned Glenn may be on thin ice in New York? I’m told the answer is no, as the 31-year-old is closing out his career and really isn’t looking long-term.”

This suggests that Anzalone is focused on wrapping up his career rather than making long-term commitments.

Jets’ Plan for the Offseason

The Jets, under general manager Darren Mougey, are planning to take an aggressive yet calculated approach to free agency. Mougey emphasized the importance of balancing ambition with strategic decision-making.

“I think everyone wants to be aggressive, but calculated, with how they attack the offseason,” Mougey said. “Whether that’s free agency and the draft, and just knowing your team, knowing your division and what you need. You can say it’s an aggressive approach but it really needs to be a very calculated approach, knowing your resources — your draft resources, your cap, your future cap, and what that might look like. We’re always going to look to add and kind of know where we might be deficient and where we might need to really add power to compete in the division.”

Mougey added that he feels more confident about the team’s future after a year in his role. He highlighted the collaboration between himself and Glenn, stating that they have a clear vision for the team’s direction.

Glenn’s Move to the Jets

Glenn was one of two major Lions coordinators to leave after the 2024 season. He accepted the head coaching job with the Jets, while offensive coordinator Ben Johnson joined the Chicago Bears. This exodus has left a void in the Lions’ coaching staff, which could impact the team’s performance in the coming years.

Anzalone’s Career with the Lions

Anzalone has been with the Lions since 2021, when he signed with the team in March. Prior to that, he was a third-round pick by the New Orleans Saints in the 2017 NFL Draft. In 2023, he agreed to a three-year, $18.75 million contract extension with the Lions.

His time with the team has been marked by consistent contributions on the field, and his departure would be a significant loss for the defense. As the Lions continue to evaluate their roster, the possibility of losing Anzalone adds another layer of complexity to their offseason plans.