The Detroit Lions will have an opportunity to advance to the NFC Championship Game on Saturday when they face the Washington Commanders at Ford Field in the divisional round. Dan Campbell’s team concluded the regular season with a 15-2 record, securing the NFC North title and the No. 1 seed in the conference in Week 18 after a dominant victory over the Minnesota Vikings.

Detroit’s offense has been electric in 2024. While quarterback Jared Goff and the team’s skill players get most of the attention, the Lions’ offensive line has been the driving force behind Ben Johnson’s offense. Four of the five starters from last year’s offensive line returned for 2024, with Jonah Jackson being the lone exception after signing with the Los Angeles Rams during free agency last offseason.

The new addition to the offensive line is veteran guard Kevin Zeitler. The 34-year-old joined the Lions on a one-year deal in 2024 free agency and started 16 regular-season games for Detroit this year.

For fans looking to catch the Lions’ playoff games live in-market, there are cable-free viewing options.

Zeitler, who made the Pro Bowl in 2023, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. While the Lions should aim to re-sign him, Isaac Zuniga of Last Word on Sports suggests the Chicago Bears should pursue Zeitler on a one-year, $5 million deal in free agency.

“Kevin Zeitler could be a solid fallback if the Bears miss out on younger, high-profile linemen,” Zuniga wrote. “If the Bears do hire Ben Johnson, maybe Zeitler would be inclined to join his former offensive coordinator in Chicago.”

Zeitler performed at a high level in 2024, allowing just 18 quarterback pressures across 577 pass-blocking snaps and earning an 87.2 PFF run-blocking grade, ranking third among NFL guards.

Detroit should prioritize bringing Zeitler back on a one- or two-year deal, but if he leaves, Chicago would be a logical destination. The Bears need to improve their offensive line after Caleb Williams endured the most sacks in the NFL this season. Their interior line has been a particular weakness, and adding Zeitler to stabilize the unit and provide veteran leadership would be a smart move for general manager Ryan Poles.