It isn’t a secret that the Chicago Bears are certain to go hunting for offensive line help next off-season. They badly need an overhaul of that entire group. The only true fixture they have at this point is Darnell Wright. Right guard has no starter. Left guard Teven Jenkins and center Coleman Shelton will both be free agents. Left tackle Braxton Jones has been okay, but nothing special. It would be shocking if the Bears didn’t invest lots of money and at least their 1st round pick in that position group.
Probably the most popular name among fans looking ahead to the draft is Will Campbell. LSU has long been a factory for good NFL offensive linemen, and the left tackle seems like the latest to join those ranks. There are projections of him going to the Bears in the top 10 quite frequently. Based on what Brad Biggs has heard from people around the league, that would be a huge mistake.
LSU’s Will Campbell has gotten a lot of buzz but NFL folks I have chatted with don’t believe he’s a slam dunk selection who will solidify the position for some team for five-plus years. He’s got short arms and there are concerns about his game. In other words, some believe he’s been vastly overrated.
The Chicago Bears can’t afford to reach for need.
Presuming they pick in the top 10 again, which seems all but certain at this point, they have to do the smart thing and take the absolute best player on their board. If it’s an offensive lineman, that’s great. However, early returns suggest this class isn’t rich in high-end star-caliber prospects. There are plenty of good players, but few, if any, who are worthy of going that high. Meanwhile, the defensive line crop is excellent, both inside and outside. Would the Chicago Bears pass up a potential stud edge rusher just to grab an offensive lineman who might not be nearly as capable? This is why it is too early to judge how the draft board will shake out. The Senior Bowl and scouting combine are still to come. That is when the biggest shifts take place. If there is a stud blocker in this group, we will know by the end of February.
The Bears do not need another Kmet-type in the first round.
If Will Campbell as any back issues, we should trade up for him…
2025 Bears ideal draft picks:
1st DE; 2nd DT; 2nd OL; 3rd OL.
Of course there are too many factors to control for at this point. But one that could shuffle even the four selections above would be if the Bears desire a new LT. Concern for a new S will be closer toward the end of the draft.
@Dr. M I stated for Abdul’s size, since his measurements for an edge/DE are not up to expert Poles’ ideal-typical standards for the position. I’ve been Carter’s supporter for the last 18 months. I know his social background and politics as well. Poles might not support these aspects either. But I do.
Since immediately after the last draft, I have analyzed over a dozen pre-draft/way too early websites. I recommend tankathon currently due to its clarity and continued updating, and maybe no cookies, unlike others.
If Carter from Penn State is there, he’d be a slam dunk for the Bears between 4 and 10 (he probably won’t make it much past 5, if he gets there.). He’s not just a playmaker for his size, he’s a playmaker, period. I’ve never been that high on OT Will Campbell. He’s probably going to make a good to great guard, and not a solid LT. Kelvin Banks OT from Texas would be a much better choice, and there’s a good chance he’s on the board in the 5-10 range. Slot him in at LT, and make Braxton the… Read more »