It's not been a huge distraction, and it probably won't become one, but it's clear Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone is not thrilled with his contract situation entering the final year of his current deal. He showed up to training camp on time though, and his comments to the media confirmed how he feels with no further elaboration necessary.
An adjustment to Anzalone's pay for this year was a clear attempt to pacify the situation, and get him on the practice field at training camp. The brass tacks of it show a headline with little actual financial teeth.
Anzalone is still most likely headed for the open market next March, with a return to the Lions moving toward not happening.
Lions general manager Brad Holmes appeared on 97.1 The Ticket's "Costa and Jansen with Heather" live from practice on Wednesday morning. Co-host Jim Costa eventually brought up the situation with Anzalone, citing "a little tension" and how contract extension talks (such as they are even happening) may be presenting some "harsh realities."
Brad Holmes gives (expected) token response to Alex Anzalone situation
“It’s normal football business", Holmes said. "It's the business aspect of it. We value Anzalone highly, all the things he's done for us. He's been a four-time captain for us and all that. He's still a good player, he played well last year… he’s getting a little longer in the tooth....but he’s still performing well."
"(I) was happy that we were able to come to some type of resolution, for the immediate 'right now'...I'm sure that Anzalone would tell you...he's glad that it's behind him for the immediate, for right now, so he can just go out there, concentrate and play football. He's looked good out here."
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Holmes sounded like someone who is planning for a breakup, but isn't quite ready to declare it's over. He lauded what Anzalone has done for the Lions, which showed itself very tangibly when he was out for six straight games last season.
The "resolution" that was come to simply guaranteed Anzalone money he, for the most part, would have had coming to him as long as he stays healthy this season. Nothing has really changed, even if Anzalone is playing the good soldier in the name of not being a distraction for his teammates.
To be fair, Holmes is never going to publicly say anything other than what he said about the situation with Anzalone. But actions speak loud. A lack of apparent effort to extend the veteran linebacker's stay in Detroit beyond this year says everything everyone needs to know.