Chicago Bears Strengthen Offensive Line as Draft Looms
The Chicago Bears have made significant moves this offseason to bolster their offensive line, setting the stage for the arrival of a potential franchise quarterback. With the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, all signs point to Chicago selecting USC’s Caleb Williams to be their next signal-caller. However, head coach Ben Johnson has also prioritized protecting the quarterback by reinforcing the team’s offensive line through free agency and trades.
Offensive Line Overhaul
The Bears’ front office has been aggressive in restructuring their offensive line, adding key veteran pieces to improve pass protection and run blocking. Among their top acquisitions are guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, both acquired via trade. Additionally, they signed center Drew Dalman, a move that will bring more stability to the interior line.
Johnson praised the acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of having a unit that is “tough, smart, and versatile.” These qualities are expected to enhance the Bears’ offensive scheme, allowing their quarterback—whether it be Williams or another signal-caller—to operate efficiently.
In contrast, former Bears guard Teven Jenkins signed with the Cleveland Browns on a relatively affordable deal. Jenkins’ contract with Cleveland includes a base salary of $1.17 million, a $1.5 million signing bonus, and various incentives, totaling a 2025 cap hit of $2.29 million. While Jenkins was a solid player for the Bears, the team clearly prioritized bringing in experienced linemen who fit Johnson’s vision for the offense.
The No. 1 Draft Pick and Caleb Williams
With the first overall selection in the draft, speculation continues to build around the Bears’ plans. Most analysts believe that Chicago will select Caleb Williams, widely regarded as the best quarterback prospect in this year’s class. Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, is known for his elite arm talent, mobility, and playmaking ability under pressure.
Williams has drawn comparisons to NFL stars like Patrick Mahomes due to his improvisational skills and ability to extend plays. The Bears hope that pairing him with a revamped offensive line and playmakers like wide receiver DJ Moore will create an explosive offense.
However, some rumors suggest the Bears could consider other options, such as trading the No. 1 pick for a massive haul of future draft capital. This scenario seems unlikely given Chicago’s recent moves, which indicate they are building around a young quarterback.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Bears remain one of the most intriguing teams in the league. Their aggressive approach to free agency suggests they are focused on competing immediately rather than undergoing a slow rebuild.
If Williams is indeed the pick, the pressure will be on him to deliver. Fortunately, with a strong offensive line and an offensive-minded head coach in Ben Johnson, Chicago is creating an environment designed for success.
The next few weeks will be crucial as the Bears finalize their draft strategy, but one thing is clear: they are all-in on building a contender.
