Packers vs. Bears: 8 Free Agents to Watch for Detroit Lions
The 2025-26 NFL playoffs are underway, and the second game of the day features a showdown between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears. For the Detroit Lions, it's a bittersweet watch, as they missed the postseason despite high expectations. But if you're already in offseason mode, here's a look at eight free agents from both teams who could pique the Lions' interest when free agency begins in mid-March.
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- OT Darian Kinnard: A young, promising tackle who has filled in as a jumbo package lineman and right tackle. While his pass protection could use improvement (11 pressures, 1 sack allowed in 142 snaps), Kinnard holds his own in the running game and is just 26 years old.
- C Sean Rhyan: Versatile and experienced, Rhyan has started at right guard and center. He struggled with pass protection when moved to center, but his run blocking is strong, and he's only 25 years old, making him a potential competitor for a starting role in Detroit.
- LB Quay Walker: Despite a controversial past incident with a Lions trainer, Walker is a productive player with tackling prowess and pass-rushing ability (9.0 sacks in four seasons). However, his coverage skills are a liability, and he'll likely come at a high cost.
- EDGE Kingsley Enagbare: The Packers' 2025 fifth-round pick has shown potential in the run game with his physical style and long arms, but he's been a disappointment as a pass rusher (11.5 sacks over four years).
Bears Players to Watch:
- G/C Ryan Bates: Bates is an athletic and versatile player who has filled in at all three interior offensive line positions. He has some size and strength concerns, but his versatility makes him an interesting option for the Lions.
- EDGE Joe Tryon-Shoyinka: With a tall and long frame, Tryon-Shoyinka has the physical tools but hasn't fully developed his pass-rushing skills. He could reunite with his former coach, Kacy Rodgers, in Detroit, where his pass rush has been less effective than the Lions'.
- CB Nick McCloud: McCloud is an intriguing option for the Lions' secondary. He has experience as both a nickel and outside cornerback and has a strong track record with the New York Giants, despite a recent contract dispute. If the Giants cut ties, he could be a lower-cost option for Detroit.
- S Kevin Byard: A three-time All-Pro, Byard is a deep safety who led the NFL in interceptions this season. At 33 years old, he's a potential long-term solution for the Lions' safety position, especially if there are concerns about Kerby Joseph or Brian Branch's future.
Bonus: Bears DT Andrew Billings, who won't play due to a torn pectoral surgery, could be a valuable veteran run-stuffer for the Lions' young defensive line, provided they don't re-sign DJ Reader.
