As Alex Anzalone prepares to be a free agent his offseason, the outlook for his future with the Detroit Lions isn't great.
According to Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports, there's a rumor circulating that "odds are high" that Anzalone will play for the New York Jets in 2026.
Of course, Anzalone's former defensive coordinator, Aaron Glenn, is the head coach of the Jets and the veteran linebacker would like to play for him.
Pauline adds that Anzalone is "not expected" to return to the Lions.
"Talk of Lions players following Aaron Glenn to New York isn’t new, but word in Frisco says the odds are high that Anzalone, the nine-year veteran who will become a free agent in March, will be playing for the Jets in 2026," Pauline reported.
"Anzalone is not expected to return to Detroit, and he’s close with 'AG' and wants to reunite with his former defensive coordinator. A reunion is more likely, given the Jets’ need at linebacker, as Anzalone brings the talent, leadership, and intensity the team needs at the position," Pauline added.
There has been plenty of speculation that Glenn might not be long for New York after a disastrous first season at the helm.
However, Pauline reports that Anzalone is not concerned about Glenn getting canned, at least in the short term.
"Is Anzalone concerned Glenn may be on thin ice in New York?" Pauline asked. "I’m told the answer is no, as the 31-year-old is closing out his career and really isn’t looking long-term."
The writing has been on the wall for quite some time now that Anzalone could play elsewhere this season. After all, the Lions did not extend Anzalone last offseason, which left him disgruntled.
"I'm disappointed, I'll just say that. I'm disappointed," Anzalone said in July.
Adding to that, the Lions are already paying significant money to Derrick Barnes and Jack Campbell is next in line for a hefty payday that could exceed Barnes'.
Anzalone has been a key piece to the Lions' defense for years now. Not only is he a good player, he's also a leader on the defense and in the locker room for Detroit.
That's exactly the kind of player the Jets need and Anzalone can help install the culture he knows Glenn wants in New York.
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