The Detroit Lions have a few key players set to hit the free agency market this offseason, including guard Kevin Zeitler. The veteran started 16 games for the Lions in 2024 at right guard and was one of the better interior offensive linemen in the league.
Zeitler will have a few teams vying for his services, and A to Z Sports’ Kole Noble predicts the 34-year-old will depart Detroit and sign with the Chicago Bears. Noble’s contract projection for Zeitler is two years, $15 million, with a $3 million signing bonus.
“All of those signs point toward Kevin Zeitler, who signed a one-year, $6 million deal in Detroit and played under Ben Johnson in 2024. He’s not a long-term solution, but he knows what Johnson will demand out of his offensive front and can be a really strong leader for at least one-two seasons,” Noble wrote.
Zeitler is getting older, but he was rock solid for Detroit last season, allowing four sacks and just 18 quarterback pressures in 577 pass-blocking snaps. The former first-round pick also posted an 87.2 run-blocking grade, which ranked third among guards.
Chicago needs an upgrade at right guard and must prioritize protecting quarterback Caleb Williams. Adding Zeitler on a cheap contract to serve as a starter on the interior would be a savvy move by general manager Ryan Poles. The Bears have more than enough money to sign the experienced offensive lineman and address other needs, as the team is set to have $79.4 million in cap space, per Over the Cap.
The Lions should look to retain Zeitler in free agency and bring back the same starting five offensive linemen from last year, but if the former Wisconsin standout decides to play elsewhere in 2025, Chicago would be an ideal landing spot, especially with the Ben Johnson connection.
MORE DETROIT LIONS NEWS
Lions urged to sign $19 million 2-time Super Bowl champion defender
Carlton Davis expected to draw interest from lowly AFC team in free agency
Khalil Mack free agent idea gives 9-time Pro Bowler chance at Super Bowl
Lions predicted to pair Alim McNeill with projected $62 million breakout star
