It’s No Surprise to See One Insider’s Biggest Need for the Bears This Offseason
As the Chicago Bears head into the 2025 NFL offseason, expectations are high for the team to build on their potential and address key areas of need. After another season of rebuilding, the Bears are looking to make the necessary moves to return to playoff contention, but it’s clear that one position stands out as their most pressing need.
While many might expect a variety of positions to be high on the list of priorities, one insider’s opinion has shed light on what many believe is the biggest need for the Bears this offseason: improving their offensive line.
The Offensive Line Struggles
The offensive line has long been a weak point for the Bears, and despite efforts to address it in recent years, the group has continued to underperform. The team has struggled to provide adequate protection for its quarterbacks and has also been inconsistent in creating running lanes for the running backs. This has directly impacted the offense’s ability to sustain drives, convert on third downs, and protect key players like their starting quarterback.
In particular, the struggles on the offensive line have made it difficult for Chicago to maximize the potential of Justin Fields, their young quarterback with incredible athleticism and playmaking ability. Fields is still developing as a passer and playmaker, but his growth has been stunted at times due to poor protection in the pocket. The Bears need to build a more reliable offensive line to give Fields more time to make plays and to give the offense the chance to function more effectively.
The Bears have made some moves to address this issue in recent years, including signing veterans and drafting promising offensive linemen. However, the results have been mixed, and Chicago’s line has often been the Achilles’ heel of the offense.
Insider Perspective: The Need for Stability
An insider who has closely followed the team’s development over the past several seasons pointed out that the Bears’ biggest offseason need is clear: they need to invest heavily in their offensive line. Whether that means making high-profile free-agent signings, trading up in the draft, or taking a different approach, the priority should be shoring up the trenches. The Bears cannot afford another year of inconsistent play along the offensive line if they want to give their young quarterback a chance to thrive and their offense a chance to grow.
While the Bears have made some moves to address the position, it is apparent that they still need more stability and depth up front. The insider emphasized that no matter how promising Fields looks or how talented the skill players are around him, without consistent protection, the offense will continue to struggle. A top-tier offensive line is not just about pass protection but also about establishing a strong running game, which has been inconsistent for Chicago in recent years.
Potential Solutions for the Bears
There are several ways the Bears could address their offensive line needs this offseason. Here are a few potential avenues the team could pursue:
- Free Agency: One of the quickest ways for the Bears to improve their offensive line is through free agency. The 2025 free-agent class has some notable offensive linemen who could immediately come in and provide help. Whether it’s a veteran tackle to protect the quarterback’s blind side or a guard to strengthen the interior, the Bears could make a splash by signing a proven player who can start from day one.
- NFL Draft: If the Bears choose to build through the draft, this year’s class features several high-level offensive line prospects. Chicago holds the 6th overall pick, which could give them an opportunity to land a top-tier offensive tackle or guard. Adding a young, elite prospect to the mix could help establish the foundation of the line for years to come. Additionally, the Bears could find quality depth in the middle rounds of the draft, giving them options to bolster their line at various positions.
- Internal Development: The Bears may also look to develop the young talent they’ve already acquired. Players like Teven Jenkins and Braxton Jones have shown flashes of potential but have struggled with consistency. If the Bears can unlock the full potential of their current players, they may not need to make as many external additions. However, development alone may not be enough, and it’s likely the team will need additional reinforcements.
- Trade: If the Bears decide they want to make a more aggressive move, they could explore the trade market for an established offensive lineman. Trading for a proven veteran could be a way to address the need for immediate impact without the risks associated with developing a rookie or signing an unproven free agent. However, this route would likely come at a significant cost in terms of draft capital.
The Importance of Protecting Justin Fields
The most important reason why upgrading the offensive line is so critical is the protection of Justin Fields. Fields has shown flashes of brilliance as a quarterback, showcasing his ability to make plays with his arm and his legs. However, his ability to grow and mature as a passer has been stunted by inconsistent protection. Whether it’s holding onto the ball too long or scrambling too much, Fields has not had the stability he needs to develop at a quicker pace.
An improved offensive line will allow Fields to process plays more effectively, read defenses, and ultimately make better decisions with the football. If the Bears can give Fields more time to operate, it will lead to a more efficient and dangerous offense.
Additionally, a more stable offensive line will allow the Bears to establish a more balanced offense with a reliable running game. Chicago has struggled to find consistent success in the run game, and while David Montgomery and other backs have shown flashes, their success has often been limited by poor blocking up front. A stronger offensive line will make the running game more productive, keeping defenses honest and opening up the passing game.
Bears’ Overall Offseason Outlook
The 2025 offseason is critical for the Chicago Bears as they look to continue their rebuilding process and make a push for the playoffs. While there are several areas that need attention, it’s clear that improving the offensive line is the team’s most pressing need. If they can solidify this position, they will go a long way in giving Justin Fields and the rest of the offense a legitimate chance to thrive in the coming seasons.
In addition to addressing the offensive line, the Bears will likely look to strengthen their defense, improve their receiving corps, and continue building depth across the roster. However, no move will have a bigger impact on the team’s success than shoring up the offensive line.
As the offseason progresses, fans and analysts will closely watch the moves that the Bears make. Given the stakes and the opportunities ahead, it’s no surprise that the offensive line is the area in most need of improvement. The team has the resources to make a big splash, and if they do, it could change the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.