The Chicago Bears should be optimistic about the team’s future despite their disappointing 5-12 season.
Chicago has their franchise quarterback after drafting Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 National Football League draft. Williams’ rookie season was filled with highs and lows, setting a franchise rookie record with 3,541 passing yards, but also was sacked an NFL-high 68 times.
The Bears’ offensive line may not be responsible for every one of those sacks, but still needs improvement. With how pricey signing offensive linemen in free agency can be and three draft picks in the top 50, Chicago may look to the draft to upgrade its line.
Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport believes the Bears should trade up in the draft to draft a lineman like Louisiana State University’s Will Campbell.
“So, if there’s an opportunity for Chicago general manager Ryan Poles to slide up a spot or two and obtain the best offensive lineman in this draft class, he should pounce,” Davenport wrote. “It’s actually possible that Campbell will make it to the Bears at No. 10. But a slide up a spot or two to make sure Chicago lands the 6’6″, 323-pounder shouldn’t cost more than a Day 2 pick.”
“Frankly, Chicago’s need at guard might be even more pressing than at tackle. And while an eyebrow or two may go up at the idea of trading up for an interior lineman, the Bears need to do whatever is necessary for Williams to take a step forward in Year 2.”
The Bears’ offensive line is not the only need this offseason, but improving the offense is a priority. Chicago has already hired former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as the team’s head coach. Drafting a talented lineman like Campbell is one way to help the offense take a step forward.
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