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Alex Anzalone is still learning the ins and outs of Todd Bowles' defense, but the veteran linebacker says the transition has become much smoother as Tampa Bay's offseason program progresses.
Speaking during OTAs in comments shared by Pewter Report, Anzalone explained that it took a couple of weeks to fully process the concepts and responsibilities within the Buccaneers' defensive system.
While he acknowledged that Bowles' scheme is more complex than what he has been accustomed to in the past, Anzalone noted that the overall structure has become easier to understand with additional reps, meetings, and communication.
The veteran linebacker said one of the biggest parts of the adjustment has been learning not only the calls themselves but also what the coaching staff is trying to accomplish with each one. As his comfort level has increased, his focus has shifted toward studying how Bowles approaches different situations and what defensive calls he prefers to use in those moments.
That distinction is an important one. For many players, the first challenge is learning the terminology and assignments. Anzalone's comments suggest he has largely moved beyond that stage and is now working to understand the finer details of how Bowles operates one of the NFL's most aggressive defensive systems.
The Buccaneers signed Anzalone this offseason to help replace the production and leadership lost following the retirement of Lavonte David. A veteran with extensive starting experience, Anzalone is expected to play a significant role in Tampa Bay's defense alongside Josiah Trotter and the rest of the linebacker group.
As OTAs continue and training camp approaches, Anzalone's growing familiarity with Bowles' defensive philosophy could be an important development for a Buccaneers defense looking to remain among the NFL's best in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Alex Anzalone discusses learning the Buccaneers defense during OTAs
Continue reading...
Speaking during OTAs in comments shared by Pewter Report, Anzalone explained that it took a couple of weeks to fully process the concepts and responsibilities within the Buccaneers' defensive system.
While he acknowledged that Bowles' scheme is more complex than what he has been accustomed to in the past, Anzalone noted that the overall structure has become easier to understand with additional reps, meetings, and communication.
The veteran linebacker said one of the biggest parts of the adjustment has been learning not only the calls themselves but also what the coaching staff is trying to accomplish with each one. As his comfort level has increased, his focus has shifted toward studying how Bowles approaches different situations and what defensive calls he prefers to use in those moments.
That distinction is an important one. For many players, the first challenge is learning the terminology and assignments. Anzalone's comments suggest he has largely moved beyond that stage and is now working to understand the finer details of how Bowles operates one of the NFL's most aggressive defensive systems.
The Buccaneers signed Anzalone this offseason to help replace the production and leadership lost following the retirement of Lavonte David. A veteran with extensive starting experience, Anzalone is expected to play a significant role in Tampa Bay's defense alongside Josiah Trotter and the rest of the linebacker group.
As OTAs continue and training camp approaches, Anzalone's growing familiarity with Bowles' defensive philosophy could be an important development for a Buccaneers defense looking to remain among the NFL's best in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Alex Anzalone discusses learning the Buccaneers defense during OTAs
Continue reading...
