Chicago Bears Eye Trench Upgrades in 2025 NFL Mock Draft

CHICAGO, IL — The Chicago Bears are poised for a transformative offseason as they prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft with a keen focus on reinforcing their offensive and defensive lines. With significant holes to fill, General Manager Ryan Poles plans to prioritize these key positions to support franchise quarterback Caleb Williams, especially following the team’s struggles in the previous season.

In his recent three-round mock draft, analyst Justin Easterling highlights Alabama guard Tyler Booker as the Bears’ potential first-round pick at No. 10. ‘I know, I know. An interior offensive lineman in the top 10? The Bears will be in no-man’s land if the board falls this way,’ Easterling explained in his analysis. ‘But helping Caleb Williams with offensive line upgrades is the biggest priority.’

Booker, noted for his polished skills and high-impact potential, could provide a significant boost in pass protection, critical for the development of Williams who was sacked an alarming 68 times in the previous season. Easterling asserts that ‘Booker is a polished, high-floor player who will make an instant impact.’

Adding further credence to this pick, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah has also included Booker in his projections for the Bears, marking him as a first-round prospect. This interest reflects the growing consensus that Chicago needs to strengthen its offensive line to protect its young signal-caller.

In Round 2, Easterling shifts his focus to defense, projecting that the Bears will select Ohio State edge rusher JT Tuimoloau with the 39th overall pick. Tuimoloau’s remarkable 12.5-sack performance in 2024 has solidified his status as a quality edge rusher. ‘He may be viewed as having hit his ceiling, but he profiles as a three-down defender who could be a valuable asset opposite Montez Sweat,’ Easterling noted.

Subsequently, with their 41st pick, the Bears would reinforce their offensive line further by selecting Oregon offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. Analysts regard Conerly as a potential Day 1 starter, crucial for a team looking to stabilize its offensive front amid uncertainties surrounding current left tackle Braxton Jones.

Rounding out their early selections, Easterling predicts that Chicago will pick Tennessee defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott in the third round. ‘Norman-Lott is an energetic pass rusher with a high-pressure rate, projecting as a rotational defender and possible sub-package rusher,’ stated Easterling, underscoring the necessity of depth along the defensive line.

The emphasis on strengthening the trenches resonates with Bears fans eager to see progress after several disappointing seasons. With four picks in the top 75, the Bears are equipped to make impactful decisions that could adjust their trajectory heading into the 2025 season.

The upcoming draft will be pivotal, allowing Chicago to address long-standing issues on both sides of the football, reinforcing their commitment to building a formidable roster that can compete effectively in the NFC North.