Chicago Bears’ offensive front has been a topic of consternation in recent times. Numerous steps have been initiated during this offseason to address these concerns, however, the team should not be complacent yet. The 2025 NFL Draft provides another opportunity for the Bears to bolster their offensive line, potentially recruiting one or more linemen to fortify their offensive arsenal. The necessity to safeguard Caleb Williams, the team’s most valuable player, cannot be understated.
The Bears demonstrated the commitment to protect their star quarterback in this offseason. The long-term strategy must now focus on strengthening their roster to establish a team capable of formidable future performance. Head coach Ben Johnson, whose notable success in managing Detroit’s offense is acknowledged, understands that a stellar offensive line is a non-negotiable requirement. The Bears must strive to replicate this model to realize their ambition of a top-tier team.
Steered by the insights drawn from the successful offseason, the Bears’ next action plan involves significant considerations for the upcoming NFL Draft. General Manager Ryan Poles and his team will keenly evaluate prospective draftees to identify the right fit for their offensive line. Presented below are five potential recruits that bear careful consideration: firstly, Will Campbell, from LSU.
Will Campbell boasts an impressive record, having contributed significantly to LSU’s program for three seasons, rising to the starting position in his freshman year. His expertise would massively benefit the Bears’ offensive line, making his recruitment highly enticing. However, the practicality of his acquisition lies in his availability at the 10th overall pick, a scenario far from guaranteed. The Bears might consider trading up to secure Campbell’s talent if they believe him to be of great value.
Secondly, assuming Will Campbell is drafted by another team and the Bears are not favorably disposed towards the remaining potential draftees at the tenth slot, this could be the time for trade back. Kelvin Banks Jr., from Texas, is an excellent choice who could come into play in the mid-to-late teens. Such a move would allow Chicago to gain additional draft capital. The fact that Texas is now in the SEC, presenting ever-increasing competition, does not dampen the prospect of Banks’ value.
Underpinning Banks’ proposition is Tyler Booker of Alabama. Just like with Banks, the Bears could take advantage of the trading back scenario with Booker. Booker’s disruptive abilities and his potential to excel as an interior lineman could facilitate Williams’ performance. Alabama’s reputable program is another factor that enhances his appeal. The Bears could aim for Booker’s acquisition in the mid-to-late teens if accumulating more draft capital is a strategic objective.
The fourth prospect worthy of examination is Josh Simmons from Ohio State. Simmons, seen as an early Day 2 candidate, could offer good value at his current position. The Bears might consider other areas of focus in the first round (such as skill player or defense) and subsequently shift their attention back to the offensive line in the second round, where Simmons could be a feasible pick.
It’s worth noting that Simmons might be off the table in the late first round; this could leave the Bears incapable of trading that far back. But a potential workaround exists—Chicago could engage in a trade back into the first round using their two second-round picks, or even options from the next season.
Lastly, the fifth potential draftee on this list is Donovan Jackson, also an Ohio State alumnus. The Ohio State has a proven track record of producing excellent offensive linemen and Jackson is another testimony of this tradition. Anticipated to be an early-second round pick, Jackson could be an ideal option for the Bears, who currently hold the 39th and 41st pick.
Jackson’s credentials are amplified by his experience with the National Champion Ohio State team, affording him the invaluable ability to navigate high-stakes scenarios, as evidenced by the team’s historic win at the NCAA football’s first-ever 12-team playoff. This experience, which instills resilience and determination, will benefit him greatly in the demanding NFL environment.
The offensive line plays a critical role in the NFL’s dynamic, reflecting the common wisdom that the team’s performance hinges upon the quarterback’s agility. Quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, Jared Goff, and others, have had successful seasons primarily because of their ability to maintain their composure and stability on the field. Most of them boast of Super Bowl appearances or multiple successful postseason runs.
The Bears desire to emulate this success, particularly by creating an environment where Williams can develop his skills without the constant threat of being upended. This can only be achieved with a robust offensive line that can deeply affect the trajectory of the team’s future performances.
The utility of a reinforced and efficient offensive line cannot be overstated in its impact on the team’s overall performance on the football field. As the Chicago Bears strategize their future roadmap, the moves taken in the offseason are demonstrative of their long-term commitment. While the 2025 NFL Draft looms ahead, the Bears must make careful and well-informed decisions to enhance their offensive line, ultimately boosting their prospects of achieving NFL success and glory.
As they stand on the precipice of these critical decisions, fans, teammates, and the entire football community will be watching with bated breath, eager to see how the Chicago Bears navigate this momentous period. Their moves in the offseason, the 2025 NFL Draft picks, and the strategies they deploy all contribute to the totality of their vision for a bright and successful future.