Dennis Allen Telegraphed What Bears' Focus Will Be In Draft

Offense has been the primary focus for the Chicago Bears in every 1st round of the NFL draft during the Ryan Poles era. Many believe that trend will continue in 2025, both due to the presence of new head coach Ben Johnson and the overall setup of the board, which seems heavier on offensive talent. That said, there is a possibility the Bears may shift to a defensive player if things fall a certain way through the first nine selections. It all depends on who is available and what defensive coordinator Dennis Allen wants.

He may have just tipped everybody off to that during a conversation with Adam Hoge of CHGO. He was asked about where he thinks the most important area of a defense is from his perspective. Allen didn't hesitate with his answer.

Not surprisingly, when I went over to another ex-New Orleans coach — this time on the other side of the ball — Dennis Allen told me that the most important real estate on the field is in-between the offensive guards and the three yards behind the line of scrimmage.

“The team that wins that area typically wins the game,” Allen said.

This reflects both in how the Bears approached free agency and what the Saints did during his time as their defensive coordinator and head coach. They spent 1st round picks on Sheldon Rankins and Bryan Bresee while bringing in notable free agents like Malcom Brown. The first thing that happens in Chicago is signing former Pro Bowler Grady Jarrett.

Dennis Allen might already be pushing for this approach in the draft.

Cameras caught him and Ryan Poles having a discussion at the scouting combine about a certain player they both liked. Speculation is that it was Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham, who most experts believe is the best pure interior pass rusher in the class. They also had a private visit with Tennessee's Omarr Norman-Lott, a likely 2nd or 3rd round option. Jamree Caldwell of Oregon was another name that popped up in February. It is pretty clear Dennis Allen wants to add another body to his interior defensive front. It is easy to understand why.

Nose tackle Andrew Billings is in his 30s and coming off a season-ending pectoral injury. Gervon Dexter was drafted by a different coaching staff. Jarrett is in his 30s as well. They need another young body to throw in the mix. Allen's had a pretty good eye for the position going back years. If the Bears don't pounce in the 1st round, you can bet they will early on day two.