Anybody with common sense knew the offensive line would be a priority for the Chicago Bears going into 2025. You can't have your quarterback get sacked almost 70 times and think staying the same is the right decision. Not unless you're clinically insane. It will be months before GM Ryan Poles can make big moves to correct the problem. However, he will be able to address the depth situation in the meantime. It appears he has already taken a notable step in that direction.
The Los Angeles Chargers waived former 5th round pick Jordan McFadden this week as they look to shake up their roster further. Chicago claimed him as a result, bringing the former Clemson standout to Halas Hall. Though a tackle in college, McFadden switched to guard in the pros, starting two games for L.A. He played well against Denver in 2023, allowing zero pressures. However, he struggled in the season finale against Kansas City, allowing five.
McFadden is merely one small step for the Chicago Bears.
Please don't read too much into his arrival. He is likely slated to become training camp competition next July. Quality depth is never a bad thing. The Chicago Bears lose nothing by adding him to the mix. McFadden's reputation coming out of college was one of a team leader and strong run blocker. His footwork is solid, and he's a polished pass protector. The primary concern is he seems to have a physical ceiling. He can block regular defensive linemen but is consistently overwhelmed by upper-tier guys. Chris Jones proved that. Competing for one of the backup guard spots is likely his ceiling. Bigger moves are on the horizon, but the small ones matter, too. This team has a tough history of health problems up front.
