Alex Anzalone makes exciting claim about Lions' defense during 2025 season
Defensively, the Detroit Lions don't always get the headlines like their offense, but the fact is, the group has been impressive early in the 2025 season.
This year, the Lions haven't had to endure a string of multiple injuries at every level like they did in 2024. There's been ailments, but they've mostly been confined to the secondary. That, along with the emergence of Kelvin Sheppard, has helped the Lions thrive defensively.
Quietly, the Lions might be even better in 2025 than they were in 2024. Statistically, that has shown to be the case, with Detroit racking up 30 sacks and a +6 turnover differential thus far. Overall, they are the No. 7 total defense in the league right now.
Linebacker Alex Anzalone is impressed with what he has seen thus far. When joining Jim Rome, Anzalone was asked if he believed Detroit's defense was better off this season. His answer should be exciting for Lions fans.
"I think so. Some of that's personnel. Who we have back and who is healthy. (Kelvin) Sheppard is a different play caller than (Aaron) Glenn was. He allows us to do a little bit more. Statistically right now, maybe we're better. It's hard to say which one is better. Whether it's we're going to be great at this one coverage and that's what we're going to call, or are we gong to get into different coverage based on different looks? A little bit different flair, but at the same time, a lot of the same principles as we've had in the past."
While the group is certainly different every season, the Lions have been able to stay in games and fare much better against the pass this year in spite of the injuries in the defensive backfield. Combined with their better sack metrics, that could help them be more formidable down the stretch as other players get healthy.
Anzalone praises Dan Campbell's quick decision to call offensive plays
Clearly, Anzalone knows the value of quality play calling and leadership given what he has seen on the defensive side of the ball this season. The Lions have seen that play out offensively, with Campbell assuming play calling duties from John Morton in a sudden change prior to Week 10.
As expected, the Lions have supported the move to a man when asked, and Anzalone is no different even though he is on the other side of the ball. He trusts Campbell implicitly and believes the team is in good shape with him calling plays the rest of the way.
"It's one of those situations where it is what it is. He felt it was right for the team (and) right for the offense. He has the persona of being a meathead and kind of a motivational coach or speaker, but he's really highly intelligent with the x's and o's and he proved it in 2021 when he took over play calling and this last game. I'm excited to have him keep doing it throughout the year."
With a solid defense and an offense that could be set to evolve in the second-half of the season with new leadership, the sky could be the limit for the Lions. Clearly, Anzalone would believe that to be the case.
Jonathan Taylor Turns Down $75 Million Offers from Chargers and Texans to Stay a Colt for Life – Here's Why!
Indianapolis, IN – In an unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, star running back Jonathan Taylor has made a bold statement about his loyalty, turning down offers worth a staggering $75 million from both the Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans. The decision has stunned not only fans but also analysts, who were sure that the 2025 free-agent market would see Taylor break records with a massive payday. But the Colts' cornerstone has his own vision for his future.
In a heartfelt message to his fans and the entire NFL, Taylor shared his commitment to the Indianapolis Colts in an exclusive interview. “I’m a Colt for life,” Taylor declared, setting the tone for what will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about decisions of the year. The 25-year-old running back, widely regarded as one of the top players at his position, has been the face of the Colts’ offense for years. His electrifying runs, leadership in the locker room, and undeniable passion for the game have made him not just a player but a living legend in Indianapolis.
The decision comes as a major surprise, considering the massive financial offers Taylor turned down. Both the Chargers and Texans, desperate to add a game-changing running back to their rosters, offered the Pro Bowler a contract that would have paid him $75 million over four years. This would have made Taylor one of the highest-paid running backs in NFL history, with financial security for generations. Yet, despite the allure of the massive payday, Taylor chose loyalty over money.
“I’ve been here since day one. This city, this team, this fanbase—they’ve supported me through thick and thin. It’s more than just football to me,” Taylor explained. “I want to finish my career as a Colt, and I want to bring a Super Bowl back to Indianapolis. That’s the legacy I want to build. Not the money, not the glitz and glamour of big cities. It’s about making a difference here, where I started.”
Fans in Indianapolis are praising Taylor’s decision, and the Colts organization is reportedly “thrilled” to have their star running back commit to the team long-term. Colts owner, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, was quick to express her excitement, saying, “Jonathan’s loyalty and dedication to the Colts organization are unmatched. We are grateful to have him as part of the team, and this speaks volumes about his character and commitment to this city.”
Taylor’s decision could shift the landscape of the NFL, as other star players will be left wondering whether the path to financial success is truly the only route to greatness. For now, Jonathan Taylor is focused on one thing: winning with the Indianapolis Colts.
The NFL world is buzzing, and one thing is clear: Jonathan Taylor is setting his own path—and it's leading straight through Indianapolis.
Taylor’s Legacy in Indianapolis
As he enters the 2025 season with a contract that will likely see him end his career with the Colts, Taylor’s place in Colts lore is already secure. Since being drafted in 2020, he has become one of the league’s most dynamic and feared running backs. His electrifying speed, vision, and ability to break tackles make him a top weapon in the NFL. The move to turn down the monumental offers is expected to further cement his status as not just a player, but a hero to fans in Indianapolis.
Despite being courted by other teams, Taylor’s heart is firmly in Indianapolis. And as the Colts look to continue their dominance in the AFC, Taylor’s loyalty could be the defining factor in their playoff runs for years to come.
The question remains: Will Jonathan Taylor's decision to reject huge offers redefine what it means to be a franchise player in today's NFL? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: his commitment to the Colts is the kind of loyalty that will have a lasting impact on the NFL for generations.
