As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, anticipation is building in the Windy City. The Chicago Bears, historically one of the most iconic franchises in professional football, are hoping to turn a new page under the leadership of their new head coach, Ben Johnson. With a new direction at the top, the Bears have set their sights on rebuilding and returning to the postseason, and the upcoming draft will be a critical step in that process. After years of frustration and underperformance, this draft presents a golden opportunity to reshape the team’s future and set them on the path to championship contention.
For a team that has had its fair share of struggles in recent seasons, the 2025 NFL Draft holds significant weight. The Bears, with their combination of young talent and available draft picks, are in prime position to address key areas of need and further develop their roster. Johnson, who has been praised for his offensive acumen and leadership abilities, faces the difficult task of shaping a Bears team that has shown glimpses of promise but still has several holes to fill, particularly in terms of playmaking ability and depth.
In this article, we’ll explore the Bears’ situation heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, the key areas of focus for the team under Ben Johnson’s leadership, and how the Bears’ front office can approach the draft to build a sustainable, competitive squad for the future.
Ben Johnson’s Impact on the Bears’ Direction
When Ben Johnson was hired as the Chicago Bears’ head coach, many saw it as a new era for the team. Johnson’s success as an offensive coordinator with the Detroit Lions in recent seasons earned him widespread acclaim, and his appointment by the Bears signals a desire to revitalize an offense that has often struggled in recent years. His offensive schemes, which focus on quick decision-making, versatility, and maximizing the talent on hand, should provide a much-needed spark to a Bears offense that has often been stuck in neutral.
Johnson’s first priority will likely be the continued development of Justin Fields, the Bears’ young quarterback who has shown flashes of brilliance but has also experienced inconsistency during his early years. Fields is a dynamic talent, capable of making plays with both his arm and his legs. However, to reach his full potential, he will need a better supporting cast and a more reliable offensive line. Johnson’s offensive system will aim to unlock Fields’ strengths while masking his weaknesses. However, Johnson knows that no quarterback can succeed without solid play from the players around him, which makes the upcoming draft so critical.
Key Areas of Focus for the Chicago Bears in the 2025 NFL Draft
As the Bears head into the 2025 draft, there are several areas of the roster that need immediate attention. The team must prioritize positions that will both support Justin Fields’ growth and improve overall team performance. Here are some key areas the Bears should target in the draft:
- Offensive Line: The offensive line has been a long-standing issue for the Bears. Justin Fields, despite his dual-threat ability, has had to deal with inconsistent protection, resulting in frequent sacks, hurried throws, and a lack of stability in the pocket. This has hindered his development and limited the Bears’ ability to sustain drives and score points.
The Bears should target offensive linemen early in the draft, preferably selecting players who can make an immediate impact. There are a number of highly-rated offensive line prospects in the 2025 class, particularly at tackle and guard. Securing a young, talented offensive lineman will be critical for Fields’ development and will provide the foundation for a more effective offense in Johnson’s system.
- Wide Receiver: While Fields’ ability to extend plays with his legs is an asset, he still needs weapons on the outside to make plays with his arm. The Bears’ receiving corps has been inconsistent, and while Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool have shown potential, neither has fully developed into a true No. 1 receiver. To take the offense to the next level, the Bears need to add a game-changing receiver who can make plays both in the short and deep passing game.
The 2025 draft features some incredibly talented wide receiver prospects who could fill this void. Whether it’s a big-bodied, physical receiver to win contested catches or a speedy playmaker to stretch the field, adding talent to the receiver room will be crucial to Fields’ growth. A true No. 1 receiver could completely transform the Bears’ offense and open up opportunities for other weapons on the roster.
- Defensive Playmakers: The Bears have had some solid defensive pieces in recent seasons, with players like Roquan Smith, Jaylon Johnson, and Jaquan Brisker providing stability. However, the team still needs to add more playmakers to its defense, particularly along the edge and in the secondary.
The edge-rushing group has been a particular area of concern for the Bears, as they have not had a consistent pass-rush presence in recent years. The 2025 draft class features several highly-touted edge rushers who could help bolster the defensive front and create more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Additionally, adding depth to the cornerback or safety positions would help solidify the Bears’ defense.
- Running Back Depth: While David Montgomery has been a reliable running back for the Bears in recent years, the team has yet to establish a true workhorse back who can consistently take over games. With the NFL continuing to evolve and become more pass-heavy, having a capable running back who can also contribute in the passing game will be vital for the Bears’ offense.
The Bears might look to add a versatile running back through the draft, someone who can both contribute as a traditional ball carrier and help out in the passing game as a safety valve for Fields. A dual-threat back could complement the Bears’ offense and add another layer to Johnson’s play-calling strategies.
- Linebacker: The linebacker position has been a bright spot for the Bears, with Roquan Smith emerging as one of the top players in the league. However, the team could still benefit from adding depth and an additional dynamic player at the linebacker position. This could be especially important as the Bears look to continue building a defense that can be a force in the NFC North and beyond.
Adding a linebacker who can cover ground, both as a tackler and in pass coverage, would enhance the Bears’ defense and provide further support to their already solid defensive line and secondary.
The 2025 NFL Draft Strategy for the Bears
With a new head coach and an exciting crop of draft picks, the Chicago Bears have an opportunity to reshape their roster and make a significant impact in the NFC North. The key will be selecting players who align with Ben Johnson’s vision for the team, as well as players who can contribute immediately.
The Bears’ draft strategy should focus on selecting players who can fill immediate needs while also providing long-term upside. Addressing the offensive line is a priority, as it will provide Justin Fields with the protection he needs to take his game to the next level. Additionally, bolstering the wide receiver corps and adding more defensive playmakers will round out the team’s roster, giving them a better chance to compete in the competitive NFC North.
While the Bears have several areas to address, they also have a wealth of resources with which to make moves. With the team’s significant cap space and draft picks, they are in a strong position to make a real impact on the 2025 season. The draft will be pivotal in shaping the future of the Bears, and the success of this draft class could determine how quickly the team returns to championship contention.