The Chicago Bears have an open window to do pretty much whatever they want with the 10th overall pick. This comes courtesy of their aggressive approach in free agency to shore up the offensive and defensive lines. Almost any position is in play, save for quarterback. One name that has garnered plenty of buzz in recent weeks is Tyler Warren. The Penn State tight end had a terrific 2024 season, eclipsing 1200 receiving yards. Many see him as one of this class's four or five best prospects. Would the Bears actually take him if he's on the board?
Warren certainly seems to think so. Tony Pauline of Sportskeedia caught up on some details during the Penn State pro day. From what he's gathered, the tight end plans to only work out privately for a select few teams.
Warren's choice to stand on the sidelines was something I've been privy to for a few weeks now. I was told the tight end is focusing on a handful of teams and will showcase his talents for them before the draft.
The New York Jets, Chicago Bears, and Indianapolis Colts were three of the teams named. Since then, I've been told the New Orleans Saints and both LA teams have seemingly joined the mix.
Those teams go from the 7th pick to the 14th pick in the first round. Warren was likely fed information that this is the likely window he goes in. The Colts are the floor since they have a glaring need at the position. So his goal is to convince the Jets and Bears he's worth the risk.
Tyler Warren is a beast, but is he necessary?
The Bears are caught in a conundrum. They don't have a pressing need at tight end. Cole Kmet is a good player. He's proven it multiple times over the past few years. His regression last season had less to do with his ability and was more about an incoherent offense not getting him the ball. Head coach Ben Johnson features the tight end plenty. Kmet should have plenty of targets. That makes you wonder if Tyler Warren is too much of a luxury. They always say to take the best player and figure out the rest later. Competent coaches should be able to craft a scheme that can utilize two capable tight ends.
After all, it's been used to great effectiveness before. The New England Patriots were unstoppable with Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. The San Francisco 49ers feasted with Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker. Why more offenses don't do it these days is uncertain. Either way, Warren has the capability to become a game-breaking weapon.
