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ESPN calls for NFC team to sign former Tennessee Vols linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 10:13 AM ET

Former Tennessee Vols linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin, who also serves as the president of the NFLPA, is still looking for a new home in the NFL this offseason.

Reeves-Maybin spent seven of his first eight seasons (including the last two seasons) with the Detroit Lions, making his mark as one of the top special teams players in the league (Reeves-Maybin went to the to Pro Bowl in 2023).

The Lions, however, released Reeves-Maybin earlier this year.

ESPN thinks the Chicago Bears, one of Detroit's top rivals, should sign Reeves-Maybin before the start of the 2025 NFL season.

From ESPN: Linebacker depth is a bit of a problem for the Bears right now. They don't need a starter because they have T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds, but former Lions linebacker Reeves-Maybin would be a good depth addition. He also is a big help on special teams, having made the Pro Bowl for special teams just two seasons ago. The Bears' special teams were strong in 2024, but another good gunner never hurts.

Jalen Reeves-Maybin L shoulder injury video
-Arm is pulled by Packer bent legs which could cause transient subluxation of shoulder joint
-Next play, holding L arm. Left game after that but returned late for onside kick.
-Probably gets imaging. Hope for good news. pic.twitter.com/uR5sE2fd6x
— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) November 4, 2024

Reeves-Maybin suffered a tough neck/shoulder injury late last season, so the Bears would need to make sure he's healthy. But if everything checks out, the former Vol is still just 30 years old -- he should have plenty left in the tank to offer an NFL franchise.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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