Holmes: Anzalone Contract Dispute Is 'Normal Football Business'

The Detroit Lions and Alex Anzalone have had a bit of a tenuous offseason as the veteran linebacker enters the final year of his contract.

Anzalone missed the start of training camp with a hamstring injury, but has returned to practice over the last two weeks. The team adjusted his contract last week, guaranteeing his salary and adding incentives to his deal.

While that isn't the long-term solution that Anzalone desired, it is a temporary solve. During a recent interview with 97.1 The Ticket, Holmes reiterated the value that the veteran has provided to the team and that the perceived rift is the result of the business side of the game.

“Look, it’s not — it’s normal football business, and it’s just the business aspect of it. We value Anzalone highly, all the things he’s done for us," Holmes said. "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 as far as what we’re seeing right now, he’s still performing well. But was happy that we were able to come to some type of resolution for the immediate, right now. I’m sure Anzalone would tell you that he’s glad that it’s behind him for the immediate, for right now, so he can go out there, concentrate and play football. And he’s looked good out there.” 

Anzalone spoke to reporters Wednesday after practice, and expressed that he was somewhat relieve d to have the resolution in the final year of his rookie deal.

“I’m glad it’s done with," Anzalone said. "Yeah.” 

The veteran also admitted that he feels a sense of urgency entering the final year of his contract. As with any player approaching the final year of their contract, Anzalone feels as though he needs to prove himself to the organization.

"Any time you're in a contract year, (you want to prove yourself) for sure ," Anzalone said when asked by Lions OnSI.