Ashton Jeanty Update Completely Changes Bears Draft Plans

Following their two trades for Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, draft experts almost immediately changed who the Chicago Bears select with the 10th overall pick. Now they were convinced that head coach Ben Johnson had eyes for star Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, the Heisman finalist who just finished one of the greatest rushing seasons in college football history. The young man has earned comparisons to LaDainian Tomlinson and Maurice Jones-Drew. He could be the perfect centerpiece to Chicago's new offense behind Caleb Williams.

However, people dreaming of that scenario could soon have their hopes dashed. Buzz is picking up that Jeanty may not even reach the 10th pick next month. Insider Benjamin Allbright of KOA Colorado indicated there is a strong possibility that the running back will land with the Las Vegas Raiders, who pick 6th overall. NFL report Stacey Dales also hinted at a growing belief around the league that Jeanty won't be available to the Bears. If this is true, it changes the entire outlook of what they will do.

No Ashton Jeanty simplifies the likely outcomes for the Bears.

This basically means GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson are likely to continue rebuilding the trenches by doing one of two things. They will either grab a left tackle to compete with and eventually replace Braxton Jones or draft a pass rusher. Wide receiver, cornerback, safety, and linebacker are all out of the question. The only wild card that could change this is Penn State tight end Tyler Warren. Many experts believe he is one of the two or three best prospects in the entire class. Maybe Johnson likes the idea of pairing him with Cole Kmet.

There is no denying Ashton Jeanty has a bright NFL future ahead of him. That said, this running back class is loaded. There is a reasonable assumption the Bears will be able to find a good player in the 2nd or 3rd rounds without much trouble. Keeping their focus on the line of scrimmage is wise. Finding a future left tackle is critical, especially with contract spiking each year. The last thing they want to do is pay Jones $21+ million per year. If not that, then adding a young pass rusher to supplement their veteran-laden group makes sense.