The Chicago Bears made an unexpected move this week, bringing in former Detroit Lions linebacker and special-teams standout Jalen Reeves-Maybin.
According to a Tuesday report from Ari Meirov, Chicago reached an agreement with the veteran defender, who was not only a Pro Bowl and All-Pro selection last season but also serves as the NFLPA President. Reeves-Maybin heads to a division rival after spending seven of his eight NFL seasons in Detroit, where he was widely regarded as one of the team’s most respected leaders.
Now 30 years old, Reeves-Maybin entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick in 2017. Across 114 career appearances, he evolved into one of the league’s most dependable special-teams contributors, totaling 221 tackles, nine tackles for loss, five forced fumbles, and 1.5 sacks. His top defensive campaign came in 2021, when he logged 11 starts and recorded 82 tackles for the Lions.
His standout 2023 season — which resulted in Second-Team All-Pro recognition and a Pro Bowl selection — solidified his status as one of the NFL’s elite special-teams players.
Chicago will now look to capitalize on his experience, leadership qualities, and versatility as the team continues to strengthen both its linebacker unit and special-teams performance.
A former star at Tennessee, Reeves-Maybin has earned a reputation for his toughness, football IQ, and consistent impact in the kicking game. With his move to Chicago, he’ll now face his old team twice each season.
