Bills Game Shows Ryan Poles May Be Good At This GM Thing

The Chicago Bears lost their eighth game in a row on Saturday against the Buffalo Bills. Things went about as expected. It was close for about a half, but the staggering difference in talent eventually tilted things in Buffalo's favor. That doesn't mean the Bears came away from the game depressed. If anything, there were reasons for optimism amidst another frustrating loss. Namely, it was the play of several rookies. GM Ryan Poles had to feel good about what he saw against one of the best teams in the NFL.

It started with cornerback Kyler Gordon. The 2nd round pick was under a lot of scrutiny early in the season thanks to his struggles in coverage. Things have turned around for him in a big way lately. Despite no pass rush from the defensive line, Gordon now has interceptions in back-to-back games against two of the best quarterbacks in the league.

It didn't stop there. A few minutes later, safety Jaquan Brisker, their other 2nd round pick, added to his team lead with a fourth sack of the year. He and Gordon combined for 12 tackles.

By far, the biggest surprise of the afternoon was Velus Jones. The 3rd round pick has been maligned all year due to his struggles hanging onto the football. Yet he managed to pull off his best game of the year with four kick returns for 113 yards. Then he added this pretty 44-yard catch for good measure.

Ryan Poles has pieced together quite a rookie class.

His top three picks are making plays already. While they have room to grow, it's encouraging to see them stand out in such a positive way. This doesn't even include other names that have stepped up. Braxton Jones remains one of their most dependable offensive linemen at left tackle. He hasn't been perfect, but he's been far better than any 5th round pick is expected to be. Then there are the undrafted free agents. Jack Sanborn was playing so well at middle linebacker before his ankle injury. Then there is Josh Blackwell. Not only is the rookie corner their best special teams player, but he's also flashed in coverage on defense. Don't forget Jaylon Jones, who had two pass deflections against Buffalo.

If Ryan Poles could find all of these guys without the benefit of a 1st round pick or significant salary cap space, imagine what he might do with both in 2023. Chicago will have over $100 million to spend and currently hold the #2 pick in the draft. He has a chance to add some serious talent to this roster. Yet he deserves credit for getting the rebuild off on the right foot by adding what could be some quality young players. At least three draft picks look like starters. Another could become a top kick returner in the league. Then there is an undrafted rookie that could become the guiding light in the middle of their defense.

Not bad.