ESPN Reveals Chicago Bears May Have Unexpected Plan For 1st Round

The Chicago Bears are one of the more unpredictable teams going into the 2025 draft. After their aggressive maneuvers to bolster their offensive and defensive lines in free agency, people aren't sure what direction they will go in the 1st round. GM Ryan Poles pretty much has the freedom to do whatever he wants, letting the board dictate his decision. In such cases, getting some details on what other teams around the league believe is interesting. That is what Matt Miller of ESPN provided.

Two interesting pieces of data surfaced. One is that the Bears brass love Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. If the Heisman finalist gets there, he is a heavy favorite to be the pick at 10th overall. However, the more intriguing mention was what they might do towards the end of the first round.

"Chicago has two second-round picks, so it could be aggressive and package them to trade back into the end of Round 1 if a desired pass rusher falls. That rusher could be a defensive tackle or an edge rusher, with the team viewing defensive tackle as a more pressing need."

Recent video footage of Poles and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen strongly hinted the team is hunting for defensive tackle help. This information backs that up even further. It is merely a question of who they might be eyeing.

The Chicago Bears likely have three options in mind.

Obviously, Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham won't be available. Nobody expects him to get out of the top 10. So, looking at the board, it feels like there are three viable options for interior pass rushers who have 1st round buzz. The first is Walter Nolen of Ole Miss. Many believe he's the most talented player at the position, even over Graham. He's explosive and quick. That said, there are concerns about his character that have surfaced in recent months, which could result in a slide down the board.

Another is Derrick Harmon. The Oregon product has been compared to Cam Heyward. While not the most explosive guy, he has the size, length, and power to squeeze the pocket on every snap. Run-stuffing also isn't an issue for him.

Then there is Shemar Turner of Texas. If you have any memory of John Randle, this kid will remind you of him. Though undersized, he's strong, explosive, and relentlessly aggressive. In the right system, he can wreak havoc. Do the Chicago Bears like any of them enough to trade back into the 1st round? Some in the NFL think so.