REPORT: Lions Urged to Add Former $21 Million Bears Starter Before Season

Walker presents an intriguing option for the Lions—not just for his experience as an edge rusher, but also for his proven durability and production.

Over eight NFL seasons, he has appeared in 100 games, with his most consistent starting role coming in the past two years with the Bears. After signing a three-year, $21 million deal with Chicago in 2023 free agency, Walker started 29 games and totaled 77 tackles, seven sacks, 16 tackles for loss, and 32 quarterback hits.

During his time with the Bears, DeMarcus Walker showed positional versatility, primarily lining up at defensive end but occasionally shifting inside to play as a three-technique tackle—a spot Chicago struggled to consistently fill under former head coach Matt Eberflus.

Though the Bears released Walker with a year remaining on his contract earlier this offseason, GM Ryan Poles explained at the 2025 NFL Combine that the move was driven more by financial and schematic considerations than performance. If the Lions see a better scheme fit in Detroit, they could take a low-risk chance on the 30-year-old without a significant financial commitment.

Aidan Hutchinson is ‘Fully Cleared’ Again for Lions

As the Lions continue to evaluate their options at defensive end, they can take solace in the fact that their premier pass rusher — Aidan Hutchinson — is fully cleared and ready for 2025.

On Thursday, Hutchinson announced that doctors have “fully cleared” him to resume football activities with no restrictions. While the team had anticipated his return to full strength this year, having him back in time for the most demanding phase of the offseason program is a major boost.

With Hutchinson back in spring workouts, the Lions gain a valuable asset as they assess their options at defensive end opposite him. Marcus Davenport remains the leading candidate to share the edge pass-rushing duties, while Josh Paschal and sixth-round rookie Ahmed Hassanein are also competing for roles in the rotation.

Although the Lions might still look for additional help, having Hutchinson fully healthy will give them clearer insight into the strengths and weaknesses of their current defensive line.