The Detroit Lions offense has been dynamic in 2024, as the group leads the NFL in points per game (33.3) and is second in yards per game (410.5). Though quarterback Jared Goff, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, and Detroit’s skill players receive most of the credit for the offense’s success, the Lions’ offensive line is also one of the most dominant groups in football.
Detroit’s starting five offensive line is arguably the best in the league, but the unit’s top backup, Dan Skipper, is also a valuable member of the the offense. Skipper has started five games for the Lions this season, but his primary role in most games is to serve as an extra offensive lineman and aid Detroit’s rushing attack.
Skipper is arguably the most irreplaceable backup in football, but Last Word on Sports’ Isaac Zuniga predicts the veteran will depart Detroit this offseason and sign with the division rival Chicago Bears on a one-year, $2.5 million deal.
Zuniga also believes Chicago will add Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman, Philadelphia Eagles guard Mekhi Becton, and Miami Dolphins guard Robert Jones to the offensive line in the offseason. He also predicts Chicago will hire Lions’ offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as the team’s next head coach.
“It’s hard to imagine Ryan Poles investing heavily in more than two offensive line starters,” Zuniga wrote. “Instead, the Bears might turn to Miami Dolphins guard Robert Jones as a cost-effective option. For depth, Ben Johnson could bring in a familiar face in Dan Skipper.”
Skipper would be a fantastic depth acquisition for the Bears, as the 30-year-old would provide some versatility to the offensive line and could act as the sixth offensive lineman, similar to his role in Detroit. Additionally, Skipper has held his own when called upon to play left tackle this season, allowing just one sack and 11 quarterback pressures on 135 pass-blocking snaps with a 61.0 PFF pass-blocking grade.
The Lions will look to retain Skipper this offseason, as the former undrafted free agent is incredibly important to Detroit’s offensive operation and is loved in the locker room. But if the former Arkansas Razorback isn’t a Lion in 2025, the Bears would be an intriguing landing spot for Skipper.
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