While it’s understandable for Detroit Lions fans to be upset about Ben Johnson leaving for a head coaching job, their frustration reached an extreme when he was hired by the Chicago Bears less than 48 hours after the Lions’ season-ending loss to the Washington Commanders.
The focus then shifted to which Lions assistants might follow Johnson to Chicago, and it didn’t take long for two coaches—wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El and assistant quarterbacks coach J.T. Barrett—to make the move.
Much like former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, now the head coach of the New York Jets, it’s reasonable to expect Johnson to target some of his former Lions players for his new team. With few trade options available, these potential targets will largely be free agents, and as expected, they’ll likely lean toward offensive players.
Here are three Lions free agents who could follow Johnson to the Bears:
3. OT Dan Skipper
Skipper is a versatile, team-first player who could be valuable to the Bears as they strengthen their locker room culture and offensive line depth. While he may not be the starting sixth offensive lineman for the Lions, his reliability and strong locker room presence make him a fitting candidate for Chicago’s needs. The Bears might be drawn to him, especially with Johnson leading the charge.
2. WR Tim Patrick
Patrick stepped up for the Lions this season, filling in for Josh Reynolds with 33 receptions for 394 yards and three touchdowns. Though he was a late pickup after the Denver Broncos let him go, Patrick proved valuable. At 32 years old, the Lions may look for a younger option to fill the No. 3 wide receiver role, but Johnson may still see value in Patrick’s experience and leadership. His familiarity with the Lions’ system could be appealing as Chicago builds out its receiving corps.
1. OG Kevin Zeitler
Despite the Lions’ likely efforts to re-sign Zeitler after his strong 2024 season, competition for his services will be fierce. Zeitler is likely not chasing the highest bidder, but a team like the Bears, with ample cap space, could make a compelling offer. Chicago’s offensive line wasn’t a major weakness last season, but with free agent Teven Jenkins and versatile Matt Pryor, the Bears may find room for Zeitler. Johnson, knowing the importance of a solid offensive line, could naturally pursue him to enhance Chicago’s front five.
