With training camp about a month away, the Bears fans gear up for a new era with rookie head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams ready to take the next step entering his second year.
Despite flaws, Ryan Poles, entering his fourth year as the Bears' general manager, has put together a roster. Since becoming the general manager, Poles has made huge deals. The trade with Carolina two years ago changed the trajectory of the franchise. They acquired DJ Moore, and their 2024 first-round pick became the first overall pick in 2024, where they selected Caleb Williams, and also selected Rome Odunze with their pick.
This off-season, Poles won the Ben Johnson sweepstakes and finally addressed the offensive line issue by adding center Drew Dalman, guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney. They added more weapons for Williams by selecting tight end Colston Loveland and wide receiver Luther Burden III while also drafting the potential left tackle of the future in Ozzy Trapilo.
Still, the Bears fans are eagerly awaiting the team to make another move before the season starts. Among the most persistent offseason fantasies? Acquiring Bengals star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson or landing a marquee running back. But it’s time for Bears fans to have a reality check.
The Bears fans needs to be realistic about the Bears' roster
Regarding Hendrickson, you are likely giving up a high draft capital to acquire a 30-year-old veteran pass rusher, and you must also come to terms with him since he wants a new contract. The negotiation between him and the Bengals has been acrimonious. But now, both sides are reportedly back at the negotiation table again.
The Bears have added free agent Dayo Odeyingbo, who is young and versatile, this offseason, and developed second-year player Austin Booker to go along with veteran Montez Sweat. Additionally, Gervon Dexter could be utilized as a defensive end in Dennis Allen's system, which favors bigger defensive ends, and could unlock Dexter's potential. So the cupboard is not bare for Allen.
As for the running backs, the Bears will go with Roschon Johnson, D’Andre Swift, and the rookie Kyle Monangai, who is highly thought of despite being a 7th-round pick. Though Swift has been a favorite punching bag amongst Bears fans, perhaps both Poles and Johnson believe that an improved offensive line will also improve the running game. Otherwise, they would have traded or released Swift already.
Look, we can agree Ryan Poles has made his share of mistakes since he became the general manager. But for the first time in a long time, the Bears now have the foundation for sustained success: a dynamic young quarterback, a revamped receiving corps, and a defense that is expected to thrive in a new system.
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Poles is playing the long game by building through the draft and smart free-agent signings without impacting the salary cap. There is no need to spend the salary cap on remaining this season. Flashy trades and signings might excite fans in every sport. The Bears already went through that with Ryan Pace. Ryan Poles is determined not to make those same mistakes.