The 2025 NFL Draft week has finally arrived, marking a critical point for all 32 teams as they seek to finalize their rosters before the lengthy break leading to training camp.
For the Chicago Bears, the offseason has been a whirlwind, especially following their search to replace head coach Matt Eberflus.
With their roster transformation process ramping up significantly before free agency, the Bears have already added five impact starters alongside valuable depth players, signaling a robust shift in their approach.
Projected to select a seven-man draft class, this upcoming draft represents a unique opportunity for the Bears, who find themselves without a significant list of urgent needs going into the weekend.
In this scenario, general manager Ryan Poles mentioned that the team can afford to keep their draft board wide open as the event unfolds.
The atmosphere at Halas Hall is charged with renewed energy.
While free agency has provided the Bears with an infusion of talent, the draft is crucial for building a foundation of sustained success.
As the draft weekend approaches, a final mock draft helps outline potential strategies.
One significant move proposed is the first trade of the draft, involving the Bears sending pick #10 (valued at 1,300 points) and pick #41 (worth 490 points) to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for picks #5 (valued at 1,700 points) and #107 (worth 80 points).
At pick #5, the Bears are predicted to select running back Ashton Jeanty from Boise State.
This choice marks a departure from traditional drafting strategies, as the Bears envision not just filling immediate needs but potentially acquiring a game-changer in the backfield.
Although the authenticity of this trade is debated—many analysts suggest it may not be the wisest move for a team still in recovery—it showcases the potential of Jeanty, who is regarded as a complete runner with exceptional vision and balance.
With a well-rounded skill set that includes advanced receiving abilities, Jeanty could become a dynamic weapon for the Bears’ offense, but the steep price tag for the trade poses questions about its long-term viability.
As an alternative selection, offensive tackle/guard Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas is also on the radar, given the importance of bolstering the offensive line.
In a second trade scenario, the Bears could send pick #39 (worth 510 points) to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for picks #45 (valued at 450 points) and #117 (worth 60 points).
With their second-round pick at #45, the Bears are projected to select defensive end JT Tuimoloau of Ohio State.
Focusing on regaining picks while reinforcing the trenches, this pick signifies an attempt to address secondary needs on defense.
Even though this edge-rushing class may not be stellar, Tuimoloau is recognized for his reliability and ability to disrupt plays, making him an appealing choice for a Bears’ defense that requires additional pass-rushing talent.
While the hope is that he brings necessary production, there are questions about whether he can allow the Bears to reach the next level against stronger offensive lines.
As alternatives in this round, tight end Elijah Arroyo from the University of Miami also remains a positional need to consider.
In the third round, at pick #72, the Bears may look towards safety Andrew Mukuba from Texas.
This selection would demonstrate the franchise’s outlook for 2026, especially concerning its current defensive personnel, with potential changes looming due to aging players and contract considerations.
Mukuba offers an instinctual style that could be vital for the safety spot, despite concerns regarding his size and ability against the run.
His knack for being around the ball positions him well as a candidate for the Bears’ safety rotation.
Should the Bears choose otherwise, they could also consider wide receiver Kyle Williams from Washington State, addressing an additional offensive need.
As they dive deeper into the draft, the Bears possess two fourth-round picks, and their strategy will likely concentrate on defensive tackle, interior offensive line, tight end, and wide receiver.
At pick #107, the local talent C.J. West from Indiana is projected to fill a defensive tackle role.
Though West is undersized and has modest statistics, he exceeds in motor and tenacity, qualities vital for a rotational depth piece along the defensive line.
His selection would align with the team’s narrative of scouting local talent while adding valuable depth in the trenches.
Another option in this round is tight end Gunner Helm from Texas, which might fulfill a different strategic focus.
Continuing into the fourth round at pick #117, interior offensive lineman Dylan Fairchild from Georgia could offer developmental depth for the Bears.
Although Fairchild lacks extensive starting experience and isn’t the most athletic player, he has the potential to evolve into a solid starting option without straining the salary cap.
His play style fits the mold teams desire on Day 3 of the draft, particularly for a franchise looking towards long-term competition.
An alternate consideration at this slot could be running back Bhayshul Tuten from Virginia Tech, enhancing the offensive skill positions further.
Transitioning into the fifth round at pick #148, wide receiver Jaylin Lane from Virginia Tech is another intriguing option.
With an exceptional 4.34 speed at the combine, Lane could add explosive capabilities to the Bears’ receiving corps while also providing value on special teams as a returner.
While he hasn’t reached 1,000 receiving yards in a single college season, his consistency in leading his respective teams in yardage speaks volumes about his capabilities as a contributor.
In alternate scenarios, defensive back Jordan Hancock from Ohio State could likewise be explored based on team evaluations.
Reaching the seventh round, the Bears have two picks worth noting: #233 and #240.
At pick #233, tight end Jalin Conyers from Texas Tech represents another potential addition to the offense, although other roles may come into play based on earlier selections.
Moreover, at pick #240, linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson from Kentucky emerges as a necessary piece, even if linebacker is currently underrepresented in earlier picks.
Despite securing T.J. Edwards recently, Dumas-Johnson could fill a valuable role as a run-stuffing presence, adding further solidity to the defense.
Though linebacker wasn’t viewed as a primary need, this late-round selection could offer depth and serve as a solid investment for future seasons.
As the NFL Draft approaches, these mock projections illustrate a blend of strategic foresight and an underlying focus on sustaining the future of the Chicago Bears franchise.
With an eye on securing talent that can immediately contribute while also considering future needs, the Bears look to make the most of their selections and further enhance their roster heading into the critical training camp period.
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