As the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, all eyes in Chicago are fixated on what the Bears will do with their No. 10 overall pick. It’s a pivotal selection for a franchise that is teetering between a full-blown rebuild and becoming a legitimate playoff contender. With the addition of quarterback Caleb Williams as the No. 1 overall pick, the pressure is on to maximize the value of their next selection and surround him with the right supporting cast.
The Bears, under general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus, have made aggressive moves in recent seasons to reshape the roster. Still, the No. 10 pick presents an opportunity that can define the team’s direction for years. The big question is: do they go offense to help their new franchise quarterback thrive, or do they continue bolstering a young and hungry defense?
Let’s break down the most likely paths the Bears could take at No. 10.
1. Offensive Line Help
When you draft a generational talent like Caleb Williams, protecting him becomes priority No. 1. While the Bears have addressed parts of the offensive line in previous drafts—like selecting Darnell Wright in 2023—the line still needs fortification, especially on the interior.
Names like Troy Fautanu from Washington or JC Latham out of Alabama could be available at No. 10 and would provide instant support. Both are NFL-ready talents who bring versatility and tenacity. Fautanu, in particular, can play both guard and tackle, giving the Bears flexibility as they shape their front five.
An improved offensive line not only protects Williams but also benefits the run game, opening things up for Khalil Herbert, Roschon Johnson, and D’Andre Swift. If Poles prioritizes safety and infrastructure for the rookie QB, this is the way to go.
2. Wide Receiver or Tight End Playmaker
Even with DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and tight end Cole Kmet on the roster, adding one more dynamic pass-catcher could elevate the Bears’ offense into one of the league’s most explosive. The 2025 draft class features some elite talent at wideout and tight end, and if someone like Rome Odunze or Brock Bowers is still on the board, it would be hard to pass them up.
Odunze offers size, speed, and route-running polish that would make him an ideal long-term complement to Moore. Bowers, the Georgia tight end, is a mismatch nightmare who can line up anywhere on the field. Think of him as a hybrid weapon—half tight end, half receiver—with the ability to change the game in an instant.
For a young quarterback like Williams, having a dependable, high-upside target who can stretch the field or be a security blanket over the middle would be invaluable.
3. Defensive Impact Player
While much of the buzz centers around building the offense, the Bears’ defensive identity cannot be forgotten. Eberflus is a defensive-minded coach, and the front seven could use some reinforcement. If a game-wrecking edge rusher like Dallas Turner or Jared Verse is available, don’t be surprised if the Bears pull the trigger.
The Bears’ defense showed flashes last season but lacked consistent pressure off the edge. Montez Sweat, acquired last year, has made a difference, but another elite edge rusher could turn this into a dominant unit. Getting to the quarterback is essential in a division that features Jordan Love, Jared Goff, and potentially a reinvigorated Vikings offense.
Linebacker and cornerback depth could also be addressed, but pass rushers win games—and championships. If the best player available is on the defensive side, Poles won’t hesitate.
4. Trade Possibilities
One wild card scenario is that the Bears don’t pick at No. 10 at all.
If the board falls in a way where their top targets are off the board—or they see better value later—they could trade down to acquire more draft capital. Poles has shown he’s not afraid to move around the draft board. With several quarterback-needy teams lurking in the middle of the first round, a trade-down scenario could net Chicago another premium pick or future assets.
This year’s draft class is deep in certain positions, so moving down five to ten spots and still grabbing a high-end interior lineman or defensive back while adding a second-rounder might be an attractive option.
5. Best Player Available
Finally, the Bears could follow a classic strategy: simply take the best player available, regardless of position. At No. 10, there’s a strong chance a blue-chip prospect falls unexpectedly. Injuries, team needs, or combine surprises can all shake up the board.
Taking the most talented guy left isn’t flashy, but it often pays off. If a cornerback like Kool-Aid McKinstry or an offensive weapon like Malik Nabers falls unexpectedly, the Bears may pounce.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 draft is more than just a selection for Chicago—it’s a statement. With Caleb Williams now leading the offense, the No. 10 pick must be used wisely to solidify the foundation around him. Whether it’s a lineman, playmaker, defender, or trade, every option has major implications.
Ryan Poles and the Bears’ front office have a big decision ahead. No matter what they do, the spotlight will be on them when that clock starts ticking. For a city starved for football glory, this pick could be the turning point.