Ryan Poles Reveals Bears Exec Who Is Quietly Guiding QB Evaluations

The final decision on the Chicago Bears roster rests with Ryan Poles. That has been made clear since he took over in 2022. He does not fear the responsibility. However, one unique trait about Poles is he's also humble. Many general managers operate like they have an ego. They trust their talent evaluation to such an extent that they must take the lead on everything. Not so with Poles. Though he holds the power, he's made it clear that he involves several people in the decision-making process and isn't afraid to trust some of them to take the lead. A perfect example was last season when he trusted Matt Eberflus with the decision of whether or not to sign linebacker Tremaine Edmunds.

With such a vital decision like quarterback coming into focus this off-season, it wouldn't be a surprise if Poles acquiesced some of the critical evaluations to somebody he trusts. He hinted that might be the case at his scouting combine presser. In talking about the QB scouting process, he brought up a name that has helped him structure what to look for. It is co-director of player personnel Jeff King. His insights have apparently been crucial in assisting Poles to shape the growing picture.

Ryan Poles trusting King's judgment shouldn't be a surprise.

Keep in mind the guy played in the league for a number of years with some pretty good quarterbacks. He was teammates with Jake Delhomme in Carolina and then with Carson Palmer in Arizona. If that weren't enough, he got a terrific education on how to scout the position from former head coach Bruce Arians. Yet what probably convinced Poles to listen to him on this subject was Tyson Bagent. King was the one who did a ton of the legwork on the undrafted free agent, pushing for the Bears to sign him last May. That obviously worked out well for the team, as he outshined several players who were actually drafted.

It was a demonstration that King had a good eye for the position. Ryan Poles is a smart guy. He understands how to utilize his assets as any good leader should. If he feels King is the guy to trust in this quarterback evaluation process, that is what he will do. This revelation might help explain why the Bears personnel director is already getting looks from other teams about their GM positions. They sense he has a natural ability for this stuff. It is fortunate for the organization he is still around for one more year.