As the 2025 NFL offseason begins to take shape, the Chicago Bears are once again making headlines with their pursuit of top-tier offensive linemen. Coming off a challenging season in which rookie quarterback Caleb Williams was frequently under pressure, the Bears are focused on improving their offensive line to provide better protection and give their young quarterback the support he needs to thrive.
The Bears’ Need for Offensive Line Upgrades
The Bears’ offensive line was one of the weakest in the league in 2024. Williams, in particular, was sacked a staggering 68 times, the most in the NFL. This not only limited the team’s offensive productivity but also put their franchise quarterback at risk. With a clear need to protect Williams and ensure the offense has the stability to succeed, the Bears are prioritizing the addition of top offensive line talent in free agency.
Improving the offensive line isn’t just about keeping Williams safe. It’s also about establishing a more consistent and productive running game, which will be crucial for the Bears’ overall offensive balance. In the upcoming 2025 NFL season, a revamped offensive line could be the key to unlocking the full potential of both Williams and the Bears’ offense.
Top Offensive Linemen Linked to the Bears
Several high-profile offensive linemen are on the market in 2025, and the Bears have been linked to some of the top names in the free-agent pool.
Trey Smith (Kansas City Chiefs)
Trey Smith, the Kansas City Chiefs’ starting guard, has emerged as one of the most coveted free agents in the 2025 offseason. Known for his power and solid technique, Smith has been a mainstay in the Chiefs’ offensive line for the past few seasons. As a key contributor to Kansas City’s success, Smith is highly regarded for his ability to create running lanes and protect the quarterback.
The Bears have expressed interest in Smith, believing he could provide the interior stability they need. However, the Chiefs are expected to make a strong push to re-sign him, which could make the competition fierce for the Bears. Still, with a strong need for a guard of Smith’s caliber, Chicago is likely to pursue him aggressively if he becomes available.
Isaiah Wynn (New England Patriots)
Another name on the Bears’ radar is Isaiah Wynn, the former first-round pick of the New England Patriots. Wynn is a versatile tackle who can play on either side of the line, giving him significant value for any team looking to improve their line depth. While Wynn has dealt with some injury issues in the past, when healthy, he is a top-tier offensive lineman capable of making an immediate impact.
Wynn’s ability to play both tackle positions could make him an ideal addition to the Bears, who have struggled to find consistency along their front. With his experience in the Patriots’ disciplined system, Wynn could bring a level of stability and toughness to the Bears’ offensive line.
Mike McGlinchey (San Francisco 49ers)
Mike McGlinchey, a tackle for the San Francisco 49ers, is another big-name free agent expected to hit the market. Known for his strength and run-blocking ability, McGlinchey is a perfect fit for the Bears, who want to establish a more dominant run game while also protecting their quarterback.
Though McGlinchey has had his ups and downs in pass protection, his ability to block for the run and his size make him a strong candidate for any team in need of a right tackle. The Bears are likely to show significant interest in McGlinchey, and with a potential void at right tackle, Chicago could be an ideal landing spot for the veteran lineman.
Why the Bears Are Prioritizing the Offensive Line
After a year in which the offensive line was consistently underperforming, it’s no surprise that the Bears are prioritizing upgrades in this area. The team’s struggles were most glaring in pass protection, as Williams was under constant pressure throughout his rookie season. Given the investment made in Williams as the franchise quarterback, ensuring his protection is a top priority for general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus.
But the need for an improved offensive line goes beyond just protecting the quarterback. The Bears are likely to rely more heavily on the running game moving forward, especially as they look to build a more balanced offense. Establishing a dominant offensive line will help improve their ability to both protect Williams and create lanes for the running backs.
Bears’ Plan for the Future
With a clear focus on building around Caleb Williams, the Bears will need to ensure that their offensive line is up to the task. They can’t afford to repeat the mistakes of 2024, when the lack of protection hindered Williams’ growth and kept the offense from reaching its potential. By bringing in a proven veteran like Smith, Wynn, or McGlinchey, the Bears would be making a strong statement about their commitment to improving the offense.
In addition to improving the offensive line, the Bears will need to address other areas of their roster, particularly at wide receiver and defensive back. But securing one or more top-tier offensive linemen in free agency will go a long way in stabilizing the team’s core and setting Williams up for success.