Lions' Anzalone Frustrated Amid Contract Stalemate

Detroit Lions linebacker and team captain Alex Anzalone has reported to training camp but remains sidelined by a hamstring injury as contract negotiations stall. Anzalone, in the final year of his three-year, $18.75 million contract, has expressed frustration over feeling underpaid compared to the rising linebacker market and stated his desire to retire as a Lion. Both Anzalone and head coach Dan Campbell deny that his absence from practice is contract-related, emphasizing his commitment to the team. The Lions' investment in younger linebackers like Derrick Barnes and Jack Campbell has complicated Anzalone's prospects for an extension. Speculation has been fueled by Anzalone's absence from OTAs and cryptic social media posts, though he insists negotiations are not delayed by him or his agent. He has not indicated plans to hold out during regular-season games, but his long-term future with Detroit remains uncertain.