The Detroit Lions have officially designated linebacker Alex Anzalone to return from injured reserve, according to Dave Birkett.

This move opens a three-week window for Anzalone to practice with the team before he must be officially activated to the roster.

The seasoned linebacker has been sidelined since mid-November due to a broken forearm.

At 30 years old, Anzalone was originally a third-round selection by the New Orleans Saints out of the University of Florida in 2017. He signed a four-year contract worth $3.46 million, with a base salary of $809,000 in 2020.

In 2021, Anzalone explored free agency for the first time, eventually signing a one-year contract with the Lions. He rejoined the team on another one-year deal in 2021.

In March 2023, Anzalone inked a three-year contract worth $18.75 million to remain with the Lions.

So far in 2024, Anzalone has played in nine games for Detroit, making 51 tackles and recording one sack.