On Thursday, November 23, 2023, during the Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers Thanksgiving game at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, linebacker Alex Anzalone (34) tackles Green Bay Packers running back Patrick Taylor (27). MLive.com ยป Christina Merrill |
Anzalone is dealing with a hand injury he sustained against the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving. Dan Campbell stated he would be out for “a little bit,” but he hasn’t practiced since. The injury report listed him as doubtful. That exceeds expectations. Even though it’s still unlikely that he will play, there’s still a chance that he could don the uniform at the Superdome, where he started his Saints career.
After leaving for Detroit in 2021 to rejoin Campbell and Aaron Glenn for the initial stages of the rebuild, he has had his best years to date. Since then, he has improved his play each year, and since switching to the weak-side this season, he has truly thrived. He has already surpassed his career highs in sacks (3.0) and quarterback hits (nine), and he leads the team in tackles (87). In terms of coverage, he has also been Detroit’s best linebacker.
The Lions are expected to rely on rookie Jack Campbell to call plays if he is unable to go, which is still the most likely scenario. Malcolm Rodriguez and Derrick Barnes are also anticipated to assume more responsibility.
Hendon Hooker, the rookie quarterback, is currently the only player excluded. Due to an ACL tear, Hooker is unlikely to play this season. With just one practice week under his belt, he is still well behind Teddy Bridgewater and Jared Goff, and likely even behind practice squad quarterback David Blough
Jonah Jackson, the guard, is doubtful to play against the Saints in New Orleans, so it seems likely that he will return. Due to a wrist injury, he has missed two games and five of the previous six in total.
