Former Lions LB Urged to Sign With Bears

The Detroit Lions will certainly be challenged by the Chicago Bears, who are led by Detroit's former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.

In his first year at the helm of his new team, Johnson will be hoping to start a rebuild akin to what he was able to be a part of under Dan Campbell in Motown.

Because the Lions' journey to becoming a contender was largely based around the culture of the team, Johnson could target former Lions to bring a similar atmosphere to his new team.

One potential option for the Bears along this line would be to acquire linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin. The Lions released him this offseason to clear up cap space ahead of what was the final year of his contract.

While Reeves-Maybin was a depth linebacker, his prominent value came on special teams. He was a captain for the Lions in that area, and could bring some of that leadership to a division rival.

In a recent ESPN piece profiling one more offseason move for each of the NFL's 32 teams, the Bears were urged to sign Reeves-Maybin to add linebacker depth and special teams leadership.

"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," wrote Aaron Schatz. "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."