Breaking down the Bears’ top 5 remaining needs — and how they’ll address them.

With the 2025 NFL Draft just over two weeks out, the Chicago Bears still have roster gaps to fill despite a busy offseason. Here’s a look at five key needs and how they might address them.

The Chicago Bears’ Remaining Roster Needs Ahead of the 2025 Draft

With free agency mostly behind them, the Bears’ focus has shifted to the upcoming draft. GM Ryan Poles has done well to address many needs, giving the team flexibility to avoid reaching for talent. However, the roster is still incomplete.

1. Defensive Line
The trenches remain a priority. Defensive end is the biggest hole, but aging and expiring contracts at defensive tackle also raise concern. While top-10 talent like Mason Graham would be ideal, Day 2 offers depth with names like Kenneth Grant and Tyleik Williams. On the edge, finding a scheme fit is tricky, especially with Allen’s preferences. First-round options like Mykel Williams offer upside but come with question marks. Day 2 could be a sweet spot with broader choices like JT Tuimoloau or Nic Scourton.

2. Running Back
Swift and Roschon Johnson are serviceable, but Ben Johnson likely wants more. A deep draft class gives the Bears options. Ashton Jeanty could be a top-10 pick, but Day 2 targets like TreVeyon Henderson and Dylan Sampson are realistic. Later rounds also hold value, and Chicago might even double-dip at the position.

3. Offensive Line Depth & Left Tackle
Chicago’s interior is solidified with Thuney, Dalman, and Jackson, but depth is needed. Left tackle is the biggest X-factor. Braxton Jones’ future is uncertain, and the draft lacks a clear LT prospect. Day 2 tackles like Josh Conerly Jr. or developmental names could be the answer. Free agency remains an option post-draft.

4. Safety
Safety doesn’t appear to be a need, but depth and future outlook say otherwise. Kevin Byard is aging, and Brisker’s durability is a concern. The draft’s mid-to-late rounds could yield quality additions. Allen’s track record with DBs suggests they’ll take a swing on someone with upside.

5. Linebacker
Jack Sanborn’s departure thins the depth chart. While Edmunds and Edwards are locked in for now, there’s little behind them. The draft should offer Day 3 value. Names like Nick Martin or Jalin Walker fit well for depth or future roles.

Bonus Needs: Tight End & WR Depth
Tight end could become a bigger focus depending on how the staff views Kmet. Prospects like Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland offer early-round upside, while Day 2 has solid depth. At wide receiver, speed is the focus. DJ Moore and Rome Odunze lead the room, but adding a WR3 like Isaiah Bond or Tez Johnson on Day 3 is possible.