PFF says the quiet part out loud about Bears' average defensive line

ByParker Hurley|
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Pro Football Focus has been evaluating each position group this offseason and ranking them to determine where every team stands entering training camp. When it comes to the defensive line, the Chicago Bears rank 18th. 

"The Bears added veteran interior defender Grady Jarrett to a unit that lacks star power but has plenty of starting-caliber players. In 2024, Chicago's defense generated pressure on 34.2% of pass plays without blitzing, which ranked sixth in the NFL.The 2024 defensive line was led by second-year interior defender Gervon Dexter Sr., whose 70.3 PFF overall grade ranked 23rd at the position."

Did PFF get it right about the Bears' defensive line in 2025?

This is probably a fair ranking considering the Bears were one of the worst defensive lines in the NFL last season. They made upgrades, and they will get Andrew Billings, but none the upgrades are significant enough to say that the unit has risen to above average compared to others in the NFL.

There is room for upside considering Dayo Odeyingbo is only going to be 26 years old, and he does have one eight-sack season on his resume. This could be the most significant help Montez Sweat has had, enabling him to play one of his best overall seasons. 

Gervon Dexter was highlighted as their top graded member of the group, ahead of Sweat, and he did start hot last year. If he can finish well in a better environment, the group has potential. Beyond that, having two veterans, Grady Jarrett and Andrew Billings, stay healthy for a full season would not only benefit Dexter but also aid the development of rookie Shemar Turner.

Read more: Ranking most important Bears on 2025 roster: Number 29 at edge rusher

If Turner can ascend as a rookie while Dexter is still in his this NFL season the future could be bright in the middle, which would allow those veterans to save their best for the few snaps that are required.