Bears Add Veteran Jalen Reeves-Maybin to Bolster Linebacker Depth

The Chicago Bears are turning to a proven veteran to reinforce their linebacker depth, and the move signals more than a routine practice-squad addition. Jalen Reeves-Maybin, a former Pro Bowler and longtime special-teams standout, is joining the team as Chicago navigates a critical stretch of the season. His arrival gives the Bears not only on-field insurance but also a respected voice in the locker room.

Reeves-Maybin had long been viewed as a potential cap casualty in Detroit, where the Lions were juggling financial pressures and preparing for major contract extensions. When he ultimately became available, Chicago moved quickly to secure his services. At age 30 and with extensive experience in the NFC North, Reeves-Maybin now finds himself switching divisional sidelines.

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Bears have added Reeves-Maybin to their practice squad, offering him a chance to earn a full roster spot in the coming weeks. With injuries thinning Chicago’s linebacker unit, the timing aligns with an immediate need. If he proves ready, he could make an impact sooner rather than later.

For a team built around young cornerstones and a new competitive identity, adding a veteran with Reeves-Maybin’s résumé is meaningful. His combination of football intelligence, special-teams prowess, and league-wide respect presents clear value, even before he steps onto the field.

1. Veteran Pedigree and Proven Special-Teams Value

Reeves-Maybin’s résumé is unusual for a practice-squad signing. A fourth-round pick out of Tennessee in 2017, he established himself early as a reliable off-ball linebacker with an aptitude for diagnosing plays and contributing in multiple phases. His rise to an elite special-teams performer culminated in a Pro Bowl selection in 2023. Throughout his time in Detroit, he earned a reputation as a cerebral defender who could be trusted in high-leverage moments. Coaches consistently praised his communication, awareness, and motor—attributes that translate well to a depth role on any roster. His presence on coverage units often elevated the Lions’ special teams, one of the most consistent parts of their operation in recent seasons. Even as Detroit reshaped its roster and allocated funds toward younger players, Reeves-Maybin remained a respected voice within the building. His departure was more a result of numbers and cap logistics than performance. Now, he brings that same professionalism to a Chicago team trying to solidify its playoff positioning. For the Bears, the move offers flexibility. Reeves-Maybin can contribute on special teams immediately if elevated, and his experience as a rotational linebacker provides insurance behind the starters without requiring a major financial commitment.

2. Leadership Beyond the Playing Field

Reeves-Maybin carries a unique off-field profile. In 2024, he was elected president of the NFL Players Association, a role that places him at the center of league labor discussions and player advocacy. His leadership background adds weight to Chicago’s decision, especially for a young roster still finding its identity. The Bears are leaning heavily on developing leaders around quarterback Caleb Williams and a revamped defensive core. Bringing in someone who commands league-wide respect reinforces the culture head coach Ben Johnson is trying to build—one defined by discipline, accountability, and structure. His presence also brings a veteran steadiness amid the intensity of a playoff race. For younger players navigating late-season pressure, having a teammate with Reeves-Maybin’s experience offers perspective that goes beyond the X’s and O’s. Whether or not he becomes a regular contributor on Sundays, his voice in the meeting rooms and influence during preparation can strengthen a developing locker room. For a 7-3 team embracing rising expectations, that kind of intangible value is significant.

3. Strategic Addition for a Tough Stretch Ahead

Chicago views this signing as a low-risk, potentially meaningful move—one that could pay off whether Reeves-Maybin is elevated to the 53-man roster or not. If he earns playing time, he brings veteran competence on special teams and provides much-needed depth at linebacker. If he remains on the practice squad, the Bears still gain from his professionalism and leadership during a critical stretch. Head coach Ben Johnson has emphasized stability and structure throughout the season. With a demanding schedule ahead and the margin for error shrinking in the NFC playoff chase, adding a seasoned defender who has seen nearly every scenario the league can offer aligns with that philosophy. Reeves-Maybin’s familiarity with the division also offers a subtle advantage. His years in Detroit give him insight into opponents Chicago will face down the stretch in games that could influence playoff seeding. Ultimately, the Bears are not simply filling a roster spot—they are investing in experience, reliability, and maturity. In a league where depth is often tested late in the year, such additions can prove pivotal.