Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell cleared up any confusion about why linebacker Alex Anzalone is not practicing as training camp opened on Sunday. While Anzalone “crushed” the conditioning test earlier in the week, Campbell revealed the veteran defender is currently dealing with a hamstring injury.
“I don’t see him practicing today (Monday), I don’t,” Campbell said. “It’s a hamstring (injury), so we’ll see where it goes.”
This, more or less, confirms that Anzalone is not voluntarily missing practice
as a “sit-in” protest for not having a new contract. It’s no secret that Anzalone would like a new deal entering the final year of his three-year, $18.75 million contract signed in 2023. But on Sunday, Campbell felt fairly certain Anzalone wasn’t the type of player to sit out on his own accord.
“No way, right. I refuse to believe that. I refuse to believe that,” Campbell said.
Practicing in Anzalone’s place on Sunday was veteran linebacker Zach Cunningham, who was signed as a free agent back in May. Campbell said he has already been impressed by Cunningham’s natural movement and veteran presence from his practices in the spring.
“He’s played in this league. He’s a very good athlete. He’s pretty instinctive. He’s a smart guy,” Campbell said. “He’s fluid, man. Sometimes it’s effortless. He’s a fluid mover.”
In addition to Anzalone, Campbell also announced that Al-Quadin Muhammad is not expected to practice on Monday. However, linebacker Anthony Pittman is expected to return to the field after missing the opening practice on Sunday.
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