As the NFL Draft process heats up, the East-West Shrine Bowl offers one final, live-action glimpse at prospects looking to prove they belong. For the Chicago Bears, this game isn’t just another exhibition - it’s a prime opportunity to uncover hidden gems who could add real value to a roster with playoff aspirations and a window that feels increasingly open. With a few key depth spots up for grabs, especially on defense and at wide receiver, the Bears’ scouting department will be watching closely.
Let’s dig into three players who could catch Chicago’s eye during Shrine Bowl week - all of whom bring traits that align with what the Bears need right now.
1. Malachi Lawrence, EDGE - UCF
When you look at the Bears’ defensive resurgence in 2025, it’s clear they’re building something special. But if there’s one area where they could still use help, it’s rotational pass rush. That’s where Malachi Lawrence comes into play.
Lawrence may not be a household name, but his production at UCF - 7.0 sacks and a pair of forced fumbles in his final season - speaks for itself. He’s explosive off the edge and brings the kind of motor that defensive line coaches love.
What makes him particularly intriguing for Chicago is that he fits the mold of a mid-to-late-round pick who could contribute right away in a situational role. He wouldn’t need to be a star from day one - just someone who can win a few reps on third down and keep the pressure coming in waves.
Of course, there are areas that need refinement. Lawrence’s run defense is still a work in progress, and he’ll have to bulk up and sharpen his technique to hold the edge consistently at the next level.
But in a defense that already boasts established starters, he wouldn’t need to shoulder too much responsibility early on. The upside is there, and for a team looking to build sustainable depth, Lawrence checks a lot of boxes.
2. Jeff Caldwell, WR - Cincinnati
The Bears’ top three receivers are set with Luther Burden III, Rome Odunze, and DJ Moore - a trio that stacks up with just about anyone in the league. But depth becomes a real concern when you look past them, especially with Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay headed for free agency. That’s where someone like Jeff Caldwell becomes a name worth highlighting.
At 6-foot-5, Caldwell is a matchup nightmare waiting to happen. He’s the kind of red zone target that can make a quarterback’s life easier, simply by being taller and stronger than the guy covering him.
And while his size will draw attention, it’s his willingness to block that makes him a particularly good fit in Chicago’s offense. With a strong running game already in place, having a wideout who can seal the edge or spring a big run downfield adds real value.
Caldwell isn’t expected to come in and fight for a starting role, but that’s not the point. He’s a depth piece with a specific skill set - size, physicality, and blocking chops - that fits what the Bears want from their WR4 or WR5. If he shows well in the Shrine Bowl, don’t be surprised if he earns a closer look during the pre-draft process.
3. Dillon Bell, WR - Georgia
If Caldwell is the big-bodied target, Dillon Bell is the gadget guy with burst. Used creatively in Georgia’s offense, Bell showcased versatility and speed in a system that often prioritized the run game and tight ends. He didn’t see a massive volume of touches - just 44 in 2025 - but when the ball was in his hands, he made it count.
For the Bears, Bell represents a different kind of depth option. He’s not going to outmuscle defenders like Caldwell, but he can stretch the field horizontally and vertically.
Think jet sweeps, quick screens, and deep shots - the kind of plays that can flip field position or keep defenses honest. He’d be a change-of-pace weapon who could carve out a role in sub-packages or special teams while developing into more.
Bell will need a strong Shrine Bowl week and solid testing numbers to climb up boards, but the talent is there. For a team like Chicago, who might be looking to round out the bottom of the receiver depth chart with someone who brings a different flavor, Bell is an intriguing option.
Bottom Line
The Bears don’t need to hit home runs with every draft pick - but they do need to keep finding contributors in the middle and later rounds. That’s where rosters are built, especially for teams eyeing a deep playoff run. The East-West Shrine Bowl gives them a chance to evaluate players like Lawrence, Caldwell, and Bell - guys who might not be headliners, but could absolutely carve out roles in Chicago if given the shot.
Keep an eye on these names. They may not be the flashiest, but they fit the mold of what the Bears need: depth, upside, and a chance to contribute sooner rather than later.