LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) – Bears general manager Ryan Poles has long believed the strengths of this NFL Draft class have matched up well with his team’s positional needs.
That continues to be the case in his mind, with even more optionality now after the Bears’ recent additions in free agency and the trade market. In the past nine days, the Bears have acquired left guard Joe Thuney, center Drew Dalman, right guard Jonah Jackson, edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett.
After a productive start to the offseason, Poles sees the Bears’ draft priorities a bit differently.
“This really opens the whole board for us,” Poles said Wednesday as the Bears introduced Thuney, Jackson and Jarrett at Halas Hall. “We're going to be able to sit back and kind of look and say, ‘What's the best thing to do for the Chicago Bears and who's the best player that can impact?’ We've got some tough decisions and a lot of film to watch between now and the draft.”
The Bears own the No. 10 overall pick in the NFL Draft and also have two selections in the second round. Chicago acquired Thuney and Jackson via trade while dealing away just a sixth-round pick from its 2025 draft capital.
This draft class features strong options on both the offensive and defensive lines. There could also be enticing options available for the Bears at No. 10 overall such as Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty and Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.
The NFL Draft will begin April 24. It will mark Poles’ fourth draft in Chicago.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.