The Detroit Lions’ 2024 season was a rollercoaster ride, and at the center of it all was linebacker Alex Anzalone, who found himself carrying more weight than expected. While the team had high hopes for their defense, inconsistency and growing pains defined much of the season.
Anzalone, a veteran leader, stepped up in a major way, proving to be the most reliable force in the Lions’ defensive unit. His experience, instincts, and relentless motor kept Detroit’s defense afloat in key moments. Whether it was racking up tackles, breaking up passes, or rallying the team in critical situations, Anzalone’s presence was undeniable. But the real story? He had to do it all while waiting for younger players to step up—including second-year linebacker Jack Campbell.
Campbell, a first-round pick in 2023, entered the season with high expectations. Fans and analysts alike expected him to take a leap forward, becoming the dominant force Detroit envisioned when they drafted him. However, his development didn’t come as quickly as hoped. Campbell showed flashes of brilliance—delivering big hits, making clutch stops—but also struggled with missed assignments and inconsistent play. The learning curve of the NFL seemed to hit him harder than expected.
As the season progressed, Campbell showed signs of improvement, but was it enough? Many Lions fans grew frustrated, questioning whether Detroit had made the right pick. Meanwhile, Anzalone continued to be the backbone of the defense, raising concerns about what would happen once his prime years faded.
With the 2025 season approaching, the pressure is on Campbell to step up and take over as the defensive leader Detroit needs. If he doesn’t, the Lions could find themselves searching for answers yet again—while Anzalone keeps carrying the weight of a struggling unit.
Leave a Reply