Veteran LB Alex Anzalone leaves Detroit Lions for Buccaneers

Five-year Lions standout signs two-year, $17 million deal with Tampa Bay

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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After five seasons with the Detroit Lions, where he became a key part of the linebacker corps, free agent linebacker Alex Anzalone has agreed to terms on a two-year, $17 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Why it matters

Anzalone's departure is a significant loss for the Lions, who will need to address the hole in their linebacker unit through free agency or the draft. However, the move provides the 32-year-old Anzalone with a fresh start and a chance to compete for a championship with the Buccaneers.

The details

Anzalone, who turns 32 in September, led the Lions in tackles in 2022 and 2023, and had a career-high nine pass breakups last season. The contract negotiations between Anzalone and the Lions broke down in recent weeks, leading to the veteran linebacker's decision to sign with Tampa Bay.

  • Anzalone agreed to terms with the Buccaneers on March 9, 2026.
  • The signing will not become official until the start of the new league year on March 11, 2026.

The players

Alex Anzalone

A 32-year-old linebacker who spent the past five seasons with the Detroit Lions, where he became a key part of the team's defense.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

An NFL team based in Tampa, Florida, that has agreed to sign Anzalone to a two-year, $17 million contract.

Detroit Lions

The NFL team that Anzalone played for over the past five seasons, and who were unable to retain the veteran linebacker in free agency.

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What they’re saying

“While losing Anzalone's leadership and veteran experience will certainly hurt the Lions' linebacker room, there is plenty of time for Detroit to replenish the roster holes with free agents or even address the concern through their now-10 2026 NFL draft picks.”

— Scout Springgate, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The signing of Anzalone by the Buccaneers will not become official until the start of the new league year on March 11, 2026.

The takeaway

Anzalone's move from the Lions to the Buccaneers represents a significant shift in the NFL's linebacker landscape, as a veteran defensive stalwart leaves a rebuilding team for a championship contender. The Lions will now need to find a way to replace Anzalone's production and leadership within their linebacker corps.