Detroit Lions Sign Unrestricted Free Agent OL Ben Bartch Allen Park, Mich. – The Detroit Lions have signed unrestricted free agent offensive lineman Ben Bartch to their roster. Details regarding the contract terms were not disclosed. Bartch, entering his seventh season in the NFL, joins the Lions after spending the past three years with the San Francisco 49ers (2023-25) and previously playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2020 to 2023. He was originally selected by the Jaguars in the 2020 NFL Draft as a fourth-round pick (116th overall) from St. John’s (Minn.). Over his career, Bartch has appeared in 55 games, with 24 of those starting. The move marks Bartch’s return to the NFL after a stint with the 49ers, where he contributed as a reserve offensive lineman. His experience includes playing in various roles along the offensive line, providing versatility and depth to the team’s front. The Lions’ decision to sign Bartch reflects their ongoing efforts to bolster their offensive line depth ahead of the 2026 season. Bartch’s signing adds to a wave of free agent additions for the Lions, who have been active in the offseason. The team has also secured several other players, including quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, edge rushers Payton Turner and D.J. Wonnum, and wide receiver Greg Dortch, among others. These signings indicate a strategic approach to address key areas of need and enhance the roster for the upcoming season. The Lions’ focus on free agency underscores their commitment to building a competitive team. With Bartch’s arrival, the organization aims to strengthen its offensive line, a critical component for success in the NFL. His ability to adapt to different schemes and his track record of contributing in key moments make him a valuable addition to the roster.#san_francisco_49ers #detroit_lions #jacksonville_jaguars #ben_bartch #st_john_s_minn
49ers' Offensive Lineman Signs with NFC North Team The San Francisco 49ers began the offseason with their top two left guards, Spencer Burford and Ben Bartch, entering free agency. After Burford signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, Bartch remained on the market until Wednesday, when he finalized a deal with the Detroit Lions for the 2026 season. The move was reported by the San Francisco Chronicle’s Eric Branch, who noted Bartch’s new affiliation with the NFC North team. The 49ers had previously relied on Bartch as a key component of their offensive line, particularly in protecting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. With Burford’s departure to the Raiders, the team faced the challenge of replacing their second-ranked left guard. Bartch’s decision to join the Lions marks a significant shift for both players, as the Lions aim to bolster their offensive line depth ahead of the 2026 NFL draft. This development comes as the 49ers prepare for the 2026 NFL draft, with reports indicating they are actively pursuing top-tier wide receiver prospects. The team’s focus on strengthening its offensive line aligns with broader efforts to address weaknesses in their roster. Bartch’s signing with the Lions underscores the competitive nature of free agency, where players often seek opportunities to contribute in new environments. The Lions’ acquisition of Bartch also highlights the strategic moves teams make to secure talent ahead of the draft. With the 2026 draft class expected to feature high-profile prospects, both the 49ers and Lions are positioning themselves to make impactful selections. Bartch’s transition to the Lions represents a pivotal moment in his career, as he aims to establish himself in a new league context.#san_francisco_49ers #detroit_lions #ben_bartch #spencer_burford #san_francisco_chronicle
Detroit Lions Add Ben Bartch to Boost Offensive Line Competition The Detroit Lions have signed veteran guard Ben Bartch to increase competition for starting offensive line positions this spring. The move comes as part of the team’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen its offensive line following a playoff-less season for the first time since 2022. Bartch, a 27-year-old guard, joins the team after a free-agent visit last week and is expected to challenge for a starting role this fall. Bartch, a fourth-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020, started two games at left guard for the San Francisco 49ers last season before missing time with a high ankle sprain. He has been a part-time starter throughout his six NFL seasons, with 11 starts at right guard for the Jaguars in 2021. His college career was spent at Saint John’s University in Minnesota, where he played Division III football. Bartch also spent parts of the past two seasons on injured reserve, which has limited his playing time. The Lions have made several moves to reshape their offensive line this offseason. They released veteran players Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow, both of whom were key contributors in previous seasons. In free agency, the team signed Cade Mays and Larry Borom, while acquiring Juice Scruggs through a trade. Additionally, they have retained Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, and Penei Sewell as starters. Sewell, a three-time All-Pro, could transition from right to left tackle to replace Decker, while Ratledge is likely to remain at right guard. Coach Dan Campbell emphasized the importance of adding competition to the roster during the offseason. After the 2025 season, he stated his intent to bring in players who would push existing talent to perform at a higher level.#san_francisco_49ers #detroit_lions #jacksonville_jaguars #ben_bartch #christian_mahogany
