Ryan Poles was never going to tell us outright what he has planned for the NFL draft. He probably doesn't yet know the exact details, but the Chicago Bears GM no doubt at least had an inkling of his true goal for that 10th pick for months. At last the vision is coming into focus somewhat after Poles swung deals for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. This drastically improves their interior offensive line before free agency even begins. It also narrows potential directions they could go with that 10th pick.
At first glance, experts seem split on what the Bears will do. Some believe head coach Ben Johnson is angling to land star running back Ashton Jeanty out of Boise State, giving his offense another blue-chip playmaker. Others think it will be the perfect opportunity to add another dynamic presence to the defensive line. However, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune hinted that Poles may have ulterior motives. He may wish to finally go after a position he's danced around for too long.
Provided the Bears come up with an answer at center and make at least one significant addition on the defensive line in free agency, the draft board suddenly would be wide open. They wouldn’t be precluded from going in almost any direction.
One thought is it could signal a lean toward a left tackle with a high pick, maybe at No. 10. Braxton Jones is coming off a serious injury and we don’t know how the new coaching staff evaluated his tape. If the Bears believe it will be tough to pry Ronnie Stanley out of Baltimore in free agency, maybe they would look to the draft for a left tackle.
Ryan Poles openly admitted this possibility.
When he spoke to the media at the scouting combine, he stated that Braxton Jones is not a lock to be the Bears' starter at left tackle in 2025. At the time, he mentioned the idea of competition. Truth be told, he likely meant the team was searching for an upgrade. Remember, this is Ben Johnson's offense. He may not have a favorable opinion of Jones, who doesn't fit the profile of a tackle the coach would prefer. Johnson liked big and strong blockers like Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell. While Jones is a great athlete, his power has always been questioned.
Free agency won't solve the problem unless they somehow land Ronnie Stanley. Recent rumors indicate he may stay in Baltimore. So unless the Bears are willing to gamble on Cam Robinson or an aging Tyron Smith, their best option is the 10th overall pick. The core issue is that this group has questions. Kelvin Banks of Texas is noted for inconsistent pass protection. Josh Simmons of Ohio State is recovering from a patella injury. Will Campbell is the most proven but has short arms. Armand Membou was a right tackle in college.
Ryan Poles has some interesting decisions to make before the end of April.
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