Detroit Lions LB Alex Anzalone Suffers Broken Arm, Season Not Over

In the Detroit Lions' Week 11 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, linebacker Alex Anzalone sustained a forearm injury during a tackle on running back Travis Etienne. After the play, Anzalone was seen holding his left arm and walked directly to the locker room for x-rays. The team initially listed him as questionable to return, but he was later ruled out for the remainder of the game.

The extent of Anzalone's injury and his timeline for return remain uncertain however by video it is possible for Anzalone to have suffered a forearm fracture. This would be at least a multi-week absence however it would be possible for Anzalone to return later in the season and definitely for the playoffs. 

Anzalone, a team captain since joining the Lions in 2021, has been a pivotal figure in Detroit's defense. Prior to this game, he ranked second on the team with 51 tackles, including six tackles for loss, and had four passes defended. His leadership has been instrumental in the Lions' defensive resurgence, with the unit ranked fifth in the NFL in scoring defense before this matchup.

The Lions' defense has faced multiple injuries this season. Both starting defensive ends, Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport, are sidelined with leg and pectoral injuries, respectively. 

In the same game, newly acquired defensive end Za'Darius Smith briefly left the field after a play but returned shortly thereafter, registering a pressure on Jaguars quarterback Mac Jones. Smith's quick return is a positive sign for the Lions' beleaguered defensive front.

Stay tuned for more updates on Alex Anzalone.

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