New Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson could be on the verge of bringing another familiar face from Detroit to his new team.
With high expectations surrounding the Bears heading into the upcoming NFL season, Chicago is preparing for a fresh chapter under Johnson’s leadership. While the franchise is banking on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams to shine, there are still some critical roster gaps that need addressing during the remainder of the offseason.
One potential move that could stir up emotions in Detroit? Signing a former Lions standout to reinforce Chicago’s defense — a move that would no doubt frustrate Lions supporters while giving Bears fans something to cheer about.
Another Former Lion Headed to Chicago?
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report recently published a June 17 article outlining key priorities for every NFL team as the offseason slows down. With minicamps and OTAs now in the rearview, teams have entered a quieter phase until training camps open.
For the Bears, Knox suggested the top focus should be on fully implementing Johnson’s offensive system. However, he also stressed the need to bolster the pass-rushing unit.
“Chicago still lacks depth behind Montez Sweat and recent signee Dayo Odeyingbo,” Knox explained. “Bringing in another experienced edge rusher would make sense.”
Among the top free-agent defenders still available are Za’Darius Smith, Preston Smith, and Von Miller — and Knox believes landing one of them before camp would be a smart move.
Za’Darius Smith, in particular, would be a notable pickup. The seasoned pass rusher played a key role for Detroit last year, especially after Aidan Hutchinson suffered a season-ending injury. With Smith still on the market and Detroit also looking for help off the edge, a Bears signing would add an extra layer of drama between the two rivals.
Strengthening the Edge: A Top Chicago Priority
Dan Fappiano, writing for ChiCity Sports on June 17, also spotlighted Smith as a logical free-agent target for Chicago.
He pointed out that while the Bears signed Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million deal, the depth behind him and Sweat remains largely unproven. Smith, with his wealth of experience, could bring immediate impact to the rotation.
A veteran of 11 NFL seasons, Smith has racked up 333 tackles, 173 QB hits, and 69 sacks over his career. Fappiano believes Smith would serve as an effective rotational weapon — someone who could rotate in and still pose a serious threat to opposing offenses.
“Having a trio of Sweat, Odeyingbo, and Smith would give any quarterback reason to worry,” Fappiano wrote. He also pointed out that if Smith joins the Bears, he will have officially suited up for every team in the NFC North.
As Chicago eyes a stronger pass rush to complement its defensive build, adding Smith could be exactly the final touch Johnson needs.
