Alex Anzalone Bids Farewell to Detroit Lions

Veteran linebacker thanks city, fans after signing with Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Mar. 10, 2026 at 2:36am

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Former Detroit Lions captain Alex Anzalone shared an emotional farewell message to the city and its fans after agreeing to a new contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Anzalone reflected on his five seasons in Detroit, where he helped guide the team through a rebuild and into playoff contention, and expressed gratitude for the city embracing him and his family.

Why it matters

Anzalone was a key defensive leader for the Lions during a pivotal time for the franchise, and his departure marks the end of an era. His heartfelt message highlights the strong connection players can develop with their team and community, even in the business-driven world of the NFL.

The details

In his farewell message titled 'Dear Detroit,' Anzalone spoke about how the city became a home for his family, with both of his daughters being born there and his son starting his life in Detroit. He also reflected on being named a team captain and helping lead the Lions through their rebuild and turnaround, including playoff runs and exciting moments at Ford Field. While acknowledging the realities of the NFL business, Anzalone made clear that Detroit will always hold a special place in his heart.

  • Anzalone joined the Detroit Lions in 2021.
  • Over the next five seasons, he developed into a defensive leader and team captain.
  • On March 10, 2026, Anzalone agreed to a new contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The players

Alex Anzalone

A veteran linebacker who spent the last five seasons with the Detroit Lions, serving as a team captain and helping guide the franchise through a rebuild and into playoff contention.

Dan Campbell

The head coach of the Detroit Lions, who led the team's rebuilding efforts alongside general manager Brad Holmes.

Brad Holmes

The general manager of the Detroit Lions, who worked with head coach Dan Campbell to oversee the team's turnaround.

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What they’re saying

“Putting these words together feels heavy, but also full of gratitude. Five years ago, when I joined the Lions, I had no idea how much this city would shape not just my career, but our entire family's life. Detroit embraced us from day one, and it became the place where so many of our most meaningful memories were made.”

— Alex Anzalone, Former Detroit Lions Linebacker

“On the field, these five years have been incredible. Being named a captain was an honor I never took lightly. We went through the rebuild together, fought through the hard moments, and then got to experience the turnaround. The playoff runs, the excitement back in Ford Field, but most importantly the brotherhood with my teammates.”

— Alex Anzalone, Former Detroit Lions Linebacker

What’s next

Anzalone will now begin a new chapter with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he will look to continue his successful NFL career.

The takeaway

Anzalone's farewell message highlights the strong bonds players can form with their team and community, even in the transient world of professional sports. His leadership and impact on the Lions' turnaround will be remembered by fans, showcasing how impactful a single player can be in shaping a franchise's fortunes.