Leading up to training camp, I’ve taken the time to write a series of articles introducing each position group on the Detroit Lions. Practice has officially started, but there is still one more position group to cover, the linebackers.
Linebackers have become a second thought when it comes to opposing defenses. Most linebackers have been overlooked due to the importance of edge players and lockdown corners. While the X’s and O’s don’t suggest linebackers are the most valuable position on defense, there is a responsibility like no other that comes with the role. Linebackers have to read offensive guards and tackles, be the first to recognize whether a pass or rush is coming, while also understanding his and everyone else on the field’s responsibility during any given play. The quarterback of the defense; linebackers have to be the ones teammates look to when in doubt.
The Lions have collected veterans and young guys to make up the unit. To be blunt, on paper this unit appears to be the worst on the team. Get ready to yell at your TV, “who was guarding (fill in the blank for any Tight End or Running Back)?” this season. There’s a lot of optimism heading into the season, but to be nice, it’s not because of these guys.
Middle Linebacker: Alex Anzalone
He looks like Thor, but he’s more like Loki; someone you always want to expect the most from, but ultimately disappoints you. He’s the easiest person to recognize on the field with his long blonde hair. He’s a run-stopping linebacker but often gets swallowed by an offensive lineman. To give him credit, he shoots gaps like hair is on fire. When he hits the hole correctly, he delivers big blows. However, if a blocker gets to him before he gets to the ball, the play is usually done for him.
Anzalone lacks speed, making it difficult to get a volume of tackles on outside zone runs. Whether it be Tight Ends or Running Backs, he can make anyone look like an elite route runner.
After spending four seasons with the Saints, Anzalone made his way over to Detroit with Dan Campbell’s staff in 2021. The former Florida Gator was re-signed on a one-year contract this off-season. If the Lions continue to take steps forward in rebuilding, Anzalone’s days in Detroit are getting shorter by the day.
Weak Side Linebacker: Julian Okwara
Maybe Julian Okwara is the real Loki of this team since his brother Romeo is far more valuable (this was too harsh, but the joke basically wrote itself). Okwara is entering his third season in the NFL, all of which have been spent with Detroit.
The former third-round pick only started in one game last season but played in 13. He’s got the ability to get to the quarterback with five sacks last season, but Okwara will most likely see himself in a different role this season. The Lions will primarily be in a 4-3, meaning Okwara might not be on the line of scrimmage as much. He may not be after the QB as often, but the tackles will, without a doubt, be up. He’ll get more opportunities and reps than in his previous years in the league. And if his pass rush game is undeniable, they’ll find a way to get him going.
Strong Side Linebacker: Chris Board
Chris Board spent four seasons with Baltimore before signing with the Lions this off-season. Board played in 15 games for the Ravens in each of his seasons in the NFL. However, the 27-year-old only has two career starts. He’s been a reliable and, more importantly, available rotation player in the league. That’s about it. He will be given enough reps for the first time in his career to prove his value in this league. Hopefully, he has something to prove.