The Chicago Bears may not be done reshaping their roster this offseason.
With Ben Johnson now leading the team, Chicago could soon look to his former Detroit Lions roster for reinforcements.

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Ben Johnson Could Bring Two Former Lions Players to Chicago Bears

The Detroit Lions could lose two key veterans to a division rival this offseason.

According to reports, the Chicago Bears may target linebacker Alex Anzalone and left tackle Taylor Decker when NFL free agency begins.

Both players have strong connections to Chicago’s coaching staff after the Bears hired former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as head coach.

Alex Anzalone Linked to Chicago Defense

The Bears are currently searching for a replacement after releasing linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, and Anzalone has emerged as a potential target.

NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that Chicago’s defensive coordinator Dennis Allen could push for the move.

Allen previously coached Anzalone during their time together with the New Orleans Saints, making the veteran linebacker a familiar fit for Chicago’s defense.

Anzalone has become one of Detroit’s defensive leaders in recent years, known for:

• Strong coverage ability
• Defensive versatility
• Leadership in the locker room

Adding him could help stabilize the Bears’ defense heading into the 2026 season.

Taylor Decker Could Fill Offensive Line Need

The Bears may also explore adding Lions left tackle Taylor Decker.

Decker recently requested his release from Detroit after contract negotiations with Lions general manager Brad Holmes reportedly stalled.

The Lions had asked Decker to take a pay cut, but the two sides were unable to reach an agreement.

If he becomes available, Chicago could view Decker as a valuable short-term option at left tackle.

With Johnson already familiar with Decker from their time in Detroit, the veteran could fit naturally into Chicago’s offense.

NFC North Rivalry Could Heat Up

For the Lions, the possibility of losing key players to a division rival adds extra intrigue to free agency.

Detroit has built one of the NFC’s most competitive rosters, and keeping talent away from rivals like Chicago could be crucial moving forward.

If the Bears manage to sign either **Anzalone or Decker — or both — Chicago could significantly strengthen its roster while simultaneously weakening Detroit’s depth.

With free agency about to begin, the NFC North rivalry may soon become even more intense.