Israel Idonije Bolts Bears to Sign with Lions

Dec. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA: Chicago Bears defensive end Israel Idonije (71) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Bears defeated the Cardinals 28-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

We all knew this move was coming.  Sort of.  The writing has been on the wall for Israel Idonije for some time; he wasn’t going to be returning to the Chicago Bears.  It’s not totally surprising that the veteran defensive lineman will stay close to home, choosing to sign a one-year deal with the division rival Detroit Lions.

Izzy spent the last nine seasons with the Bears and started out as mostly a special teams contributor before becoming a part of the regular rotation in 2010.  He was always the good soldier, putting on and taking off weight to switch between defensive tackle and defensive end.  Over the last three seasons he started 42 games and accounted for 20.5 sacks and 105 tackles.

Izzy will be missed in Chicago not only for his work on the field, but also for his work in the community.  His leadership could have an unwelcomed influence on the Lions, at least from this Chicago Bears fan’s point of view.  Izzy is liable to help Ndamukong Suh and the young Lions defense screw their collective heads on right and play smart, disciplined football.  Our loss is very likely to be Detroit’s gain.

What do you think Bears fans?  Will Izzy be missed?  Could he be the missing piece that helps the Lions get their act together?