The Chicago Bears selected a standout offensive tackle as their ideal NFL draft prospect.

As the NFL Draft approaches, teams across the league are gearing up to make moves that will define the future of their organizations. For the Chicago Bears, the 2025 NFL Draft represents a pivotal moment in their rebuilding process. After enduring several years of mediocrity, the Bears are focusing on securing pieces that will help solidify their future, particularly in the trenches. One of the most critical areas of need for the Bears is their offensive line, and with the selection of a standout offensive tackle, they hope to create a foundation that will protect their quarterback and open up the run game.

For a franchise that has long struggled with consistency on the offensive line, this selection could be a game-changer. The Bears have not had the stability they need in the offensive line for years, and with quarterback Justin Fields entering a critical phase of his development, it is essential that the Bears invest in his protection. This draft pick could not only change the direction of the offense but also provide Fields with the resources he needs to flourish as the team’s franchise quarterback.

The Bears have consistently faced challenges in the run game, pass protection, and the overall ability to keep their quarterbacks upright. With a new direction under head coach Matt Eberflus, the focus is on improving the team’s offensive line to bolster its offensive output. This article takes a deep dive into the significance of the Bears selecting a standout offensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft, examining the importance of this position, the player they are targeting, and how this decision could reshape the future of the team.

Why the Offensive Line Needs an Overhaul

In recent years, the Bears’ offensive line has been one of the team’s weakest links. For Justin Fields, a young quarterback with immense potential, the lack of consistent protection has been a significant obstacle to his growth. Fields is a dynamic playmaker with incredible mobility and arm strength, but he cannot operate effectively if he is constantly under pressure or running for his life. In 2024, Fields was sacked 55 times—one of the highest totals in the NFL—which resulted in a significant decline in his overall performance and development.

For any young quarterback to succeed, they need a strong offensive line to provide a stable pocket. While Fields has shown flashes of brilliance, his offensive line has failed to give him the time and security needed to process the defense, make reads, and deliver accurate throws. Additionally, the running game has struggled due to the lack of push up front. Bears running backs have not had consistent success, partly because the offensive line has not been able to create the lanes necessary for an effective ground game.

Injuries have also plagued the Bears’ offensive line, leading to an ever-changing unit that lacks the continuity and cohesion needed for sustained success. Cody Whitehair, Teven Jenkins, and Braxton Jones have all been key players on the line in recent years, but their effectiveness has been inconsistent. Some of the younger players, like Larry Borom, have shown promise but have not been able to consistently secure starting roles.

The decision to focus on selecting an offensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft is, therefore, an acknowledgment that the current line must be upgraded. A new offensive tackle will not only provide immediate protection for Fields but also help in building a more dynamic and efficient offense.

The Ideal NFL Draft Prospect: A Standout Offensive Tackle

When it comes to selecting the right offensive tackle, there are several traits that the Bears will be looking for: size, strength, technique, and agility. A top-tier offensive tackle must be able to anchor the line, protect the quarterback’s blindside, and open up lanes for the running game. The Bears have already scouted some of the top offensive tackle prospects for the 2025 draft, and they are looking for a player who can make an immediate impact.

One standout offensive tackle who fits the Bears’ needs is Jaden Williams, a highly touted prospect from Michigan State. Williams, a 6-foot-6, 320-pound powerhouse, has shown exceptional skills at both left and right tackle, making him a versatile option for the Bears. His combination of size and agility makes him a nightmare for pass rushers. Williams’ footwork is some of the best in the draft class, and his ability to mirror defenders and keep them from getting to the quarterback is a testament to his technical ability.

In the running game, Williams has displayed a knack for opening lanes and using his strength to push defenders off the line of scrimmage. His blocking technique is fundamentally sound, and he is capable of executing complex blocking schemes. Whether it’s pulling to the outside or creating interior lanes, Williams can adapt to any running scheme, making him an ideal fit for the Bears, who need a player who can help establish a balanced offense.

Another standout offensive tackle who could be in the Bears’ sights is Isaiah Johnson from Georgia. Johnson’s stock has been rising throughout the 2024 season as he’s shown the ability to shut down elite pass rushers while also excelling in the run game. His quickness and ability to move laterally allow him to protect against speed rushers and engage defenders early, preventing them from disrupting plays. Johnson’s leadership and experience playing at a high level in the SEC make him a solid prospect for a Bears team looking to solidify its offensive line.

Both Williams and Johnson are capable of stepping into the starting lineup right away, providing the Bears with much-needed stability at the offensive tackle position. Selecting one of these players would be a statement of intent: the Bears are prioritizing Fields’ protection and are building their offensive line to be a dominant force.

The Impact on Justin Fields and the Bears’ Offense

The most immediate and obvious impact of selecting a standout offensive tackle will be the improvement of the Bears’ offensive line, which directly affects the performance of Justin Fields. Fields has the potential to be one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, but like any young quarterback, he needs a stable offensive line to succeed. With an elite offensive tackle protecting his blindside, Fields will be able to operate more freely in the pocket, extend plays with his legs, and make confident throws downfield.

The addition of an elite tackle would also give the Bears’ offense a new sense of balance. Fields’ mobility is one of his greatest assets, but having a reliable offensive line will allow him to focus more on reading the defense, making quick decisions, and utilizing his arm strength to attack all areas of the field. Instead of scrambling for his life, Fields will have more opportunities to stay in the pocket, allowing his wide receivers to run routes and open up passing windows.

Additionally, a better offensive line will open up more opportunities for the Bears’ running backs. Chicago has struggled to establish a consistent run game, and that starts up front. With a dominant offensive tackle in place, the Bears can expect to create more running lanes, enabling Khalil Herbert and others to find success on the ground. This added balance will take pressure off Fields and help open up the passing game as defenders will have to respect both the run and the pass.

In the long term, an upgraded offensive line will also contribute to the Bears’ ability to sustain offensive drives. Better protection means fewer sacks, fewer negative plays, and a higher chance of converting third downs. The Bears have often been forced to play catch-up in games because of offensive inefficiency, but with a strong offensive line in place, they can control the tempo of games and establish their identity as a team that can dominate in the trenches.

Addressing the Future: The Bears’ Long-Term Plan

The Bears are in the midst of a rebuilding phase, and every decision made in the 2025 NFL Draft will impact the trajectory of the franchise. Selecting a standout offensive tackle is just one step in a larger process of reshaping the team. The Bears need to continue adding pieces around Fields, developing young talent, and building a roster that can contend in the NFC North and, eventually, for a Super Bowl title.

An offensive tackle is a cornerstone piece for any team, and securing one early in the draft will give the Bears the foundation they need for years to come. The offensive line is often overlooked in the modern NFL, but it remains one of the most important areas of any team’s roster. With a dominant offensive tackle, the Bears can begin to re-establish their offensive identity and set themselves up for future success.

The 2025 draft provides the Bears with an opportunity to correct the mistakes of the past and position themselves as a contender in the NFC. With an improved offensive line, the Bears can better protect their franchise quarterback, open up the offense, and lay the groundwork for sustained success.