The Chicago Bears are stirring up quite the buzz as fans and analysts alike try to predict their move with the 25th overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. With a draft class short on quarterbacks, the landscape is more unpredictable than ever, leaving Bears' GM Ryan Poles to navigate a complex web of possibilities. Poles is diving deep into mock drafts, running scenarios like a seasoned strategist to anticipate how the draft might unfold.
This year marks a new challenge for Poles, as he steps into unfamiliar territory with a pick outside the top 10. His history offers some clues, though. Before his Chicago tenure, Poles honed his skills with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he was part of several late first-round decisions.
Looking at Poles’ past, there are two likely strategies he might employ. One possibility is selecting a pass rusher.
During his time in Kansas City, the Chiefs picked in the bottom third of the first round seven times. Of those, three players were drafted in that range: two offensive players-wide receiver Jon Baldwin and running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire-and one defensive standout, edge rusher Dee Ford.
While Baldwin didn't pan out, Ford became a Pro Bowler, amassing 30.5 sacks in five seasons.
The other potential move is trading the pick. Poles has experience with this approach, having been involved in trades for key players like Patrick Mahomes, Frank Clark, and Orlando Brown Jr. These moves often paid off, contributing to Kansas City's Super Bowl successes.
Poles' strategy seems clear: either secure a promising pass rusher at #25 or trade the pick to gain a valuable asset. The Chiefs continued this trend after Poles' departure, drafting pass rushers like George Karlaftis and Felix Anudike-Uzomah, both of whom contributed significantly to their championship runs.
As the draft approaches, all signs point to Poles sticking with a formula that has proven successful. If there's no standout left tackle available, expect the Bears to focus on bolstering their pass rush or potentially trading the pick for a player who can make an immediate impact. The decision could hinge on whether they can entice a team to part with a player like Maxx Crosby, Tuli Tuipulotu, or Travon Walker, who are nearing contract extensions.
With a solid plan in place, Poles is poised to make a move that could shape the Bears' future. Now, it's just a matter of which path he chooses to take.