Five things to remember from the NFL Combine: The Bears will have a busy offseason.

The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine has concluded, offering valuable insights into the upcoming draft and shedding light on teams’ offseason strategies. For the Chicago Bears, the combine highlighted key areas of focus as they aim to rebound from a challenging 2024 season. Here are five critical takeaways from the combine that will influence the Bears’ busy offseason:

1. Offensive Line Overhaul: A Priority

The Bears’ offensive line struggled significantly in 2024, allowing a league-high 68 sacks. This glaring issue underscored the necessity for substantial improvements to protect quarterback Caleb Williams and enhance the overall offensive efficiency. General Manager Ryan Poles has already initiated aggressive moves to address this concern:

• Acquisitions of Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson: Poles traded for All-Pro guard Joe Thuney from the Kansas City Chiefs and guard Jonah Jackson from the Los Angeles Rams. These strategic additions are expected to provide immediate upgrades to the interior offensive line, offering better protection for Williams and creating more opportunities in the running game.

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• Pursuit of Center Drew Dalman: The Bears are reportedly targeting Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman in free agency. Securing Dalman would solidify the center position, further strengthening the offensive line’s core.

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These proactive measures reflect the Bears’ commitment to revamping their offensive line, a critical step toward improving their offensive performance in the upcoming season.

2. Defensive Reinforcements: Eyeing Joey Bosa

The Bears’ defense requires bolstering, particularly in the pass rush department. The recent release of veteran pass rusher Joey Bosa by the Los Angeles Chargers presents a significant opportunity:

• Potential Signing of Joey Bosa: Bosa’s availability has attracted interest from multiple teams, including the Bears. Pairing Bosa with Montez Sweat could substantially elevate Chicago’s pass-rushing capabilities, addressing one of their primary defensive shortcomings from the previous season.
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Acquiring a player of Bosa’s caliber would not only enhance the defensive line but also provide leadership and experience to a unit in need of resurgence.

3. Coaching Changes: New Leadership Under Ben Johnson

The Bears have undergone significant coaching changes, aiming to reshape the team’s direction:

• Hiring of Head Coach Ben Johnson: Former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been appointed as the Bears’ head coach. Known for his innovative offensive strategies, Johnson is expected to maximize quarterback Caleb Williams’ potential and revitalize the Bears’ offense.

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• Appointment of Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen: Dennis Allen, previously the head coach of the New Orleans Saints, has been brought on as the defensive coordinator. Allen’s extensive experience is anticipated to bring a more aggressive and disciplined approach to the Bears’ defense.

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These coaching additions signify a strategic shift, focusing on innovative offense and robust defense to steer the Bears back to competitiveness.

4. Draft Strategy: Focusing on Offensive and Defensive Lines

The combine showcased several prospects who could address the Bears’ needs in the upcoming draft:

• Offensive Line Prospects: The Bears hold the 10th overall pick and are projected to target top offensive linemen, such as LSU’s Will Campbell. Adding a premier tackle would further solidify the protection around Caleb Williams.

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• Defensive Line Prospects: With multiple picks in the top 41, the Bears have the flexibility to select impactful defensive linemen. Prospects like defensive tackle Milton Williams have been linked to the Bears, offering potential to strengthen the interior defense.

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A draft strategy emphasizing both lines aligns with the Bears’ goal to build a formidable presence in the trenches.

5. Addressing Skill Positions: Wide Receiver and Running Back

Beyond the lines, the Bears are also focusing on enhancing their skill positions:

• Wide Receiver Depth: Re-signing veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen is a priority. His experience and chemistry with Williams are invaluable. Additionally, adding a deep-threat receiver to complement Allen and DJ Moore would diversify the offensive attack.

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• Running Back Options: The Bears are exploring options to bolster their running game. Potential targets include veteran running backs like Aaron Jones, who could provide a dual-threat presence and alleviate pressure on the passing game.

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Enhancing these positions is crucial for creating a balanced and dynamic offense capable of adapting to various defensive schemes.

The 2025 NFL Combine has illuminated the Chicago Bears’ path forward, emphasizing offensive line improvements, defensive reinforcements, strategic coaching hires, targeted draft selections, and skill position enhancements. These concerted efforts aim to rectify the shortcomings of the previous season and position the Bears as contenders in the upcoming NFL season.