One of the headlines from the first week of free agency was the fact that the Detroit Lions lost Kalif Raymond to the Chicago Bears. While Raymond was expected to depart in free agency, it is still never ideal for a key piece to join a division rival. While the move makes sense for both Raymond and the Bears, the chance to steal from the Lions had to play at least a small role in the decision to add the returner and depth receiver. With this in mind, fans shouldn't be surprised if this isn't the last Detroit player that Ben Johnson's staff decides to steal.
Looking at Detroit's remaining names, one stands out as a likely Chicago target and a clear depth need for the rival. Cornerback Avonte Maddox has championship experience and remains a free agent who could provide incredibly affordable depth. According to Spotrac, Maddox is only expected to garner $1.6 million in free agency. This is incredibly reasonable for a player with the defender's experience and potential upside.
While it appears the Lions have moved on, the Bears are still in need of depth in the secondary, losing several key pieces to free agency. Maddox has flexibility, having played a myriad of roles as both a backup and a starter. Add in the chance for Johnson to steal from his former team, and it wouldn't be at all shocking to see the Bears follow the signing of Raymond by stealing another former Lion in Maddox.
Kalif Raymond Unlikely to be Only Former Lions Player Chicago Signs in Free Agency
Chicago has lost Kevin Byard, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Nahshon Wright, and Jonathan Owens from its 2025 secondary. This is a huge blow to a division rival and speaks to the ground that Detroit can potentially make up in the 2026 offseason. However, the flip side is the clear opportunity that Chicago now has to steal another key Lions defender and improve a secondary that is badly in need of reinforcements.
For Maddox, it makes sense to stay within the NFC North and sign with the defending champs. Not only are you signing with an expected contender, but one that has clear question marks in its secondary. There will be a chance to fight for meaningful snaps and perhaps even win a consistent contributing role.
All of this paints a clear picture that Raymond is unlikely to be the last former Detroit player that the Bears opt to target. If it isn't Maddox, Jalen Mills is another affordable option that could garner interest from the Bears as a potential depth option. No matter which direction the division rival chooses, it is clear that another former Lion could very soon be signing in Chicago.