Ryan Poles is like any other GM or scout. While he always keeps an open mind during a draft, he will have his short list of favorite prospects. These are guys he loves from watching them on tape and interviewing them leading up to the big day. More than anything, they each fit the picture of what a football player should be. So I decided to study the similarities between each of his "preferred" options in the previous drafts: Kyler Gordon, Darnell Wright, and Rome Odunze. Do they have anything in common that might help point the direction to the next Poles guy?
After some research, something began to stand out. While size and athleticism are nice, the Chicago Bears GM prefers guys who play the game with a certain level of aggressiveness and violence.
"Plays with dog mentality and strikes with aggression."
Darnell Wright
"Wright plays with excellent physicality and aggressiveness, enjoys going after his opponent and finishes with authority throughout games."
Rome Odunze
"Brilliant job of bodying defenders and controlling air traffic."
Knowing this, I began researching the 2025 draft class, seeking names who might fit this profile. While there were notable options, one must remember to take position into account. It is unlikely the Bears will be drafting a cornerback, wide receiver, or tight end in the 1st round. After careful study, two names stood out as possibilities that Poles would pound the table for once on the clock at 10th overall.
Mike Green (EDGE, Marshall)
"Plays ball with a high level of violence and physicality."
Will Campbell (OL, LSU)
"Finishes blocks with good aggression level."
Ryan Poles remains consistent in his approach.
There is nothing wrong with that. It looks like his preferences have led to good things. Gordon is in line to receive a contract extension after turning himself into one of the NFL's best nickel cornerbacks. Wright is developing quickly into one of its better right tackles. Odunze didn't explode as a rookie but still managed over 700 yards in an offense that had three different offensive coordinators. There hasn't been anything to dissuade Ryan Poles from maintaining this line of thinking. That is why it might be wise to keep an eye on Green and Campbell as the draft draws near. If one or both of them are available at #10, there is a strong possibility one of them will end up in navy blue and orange. It'd be a good thing, too. They're good players.
