The Chicago Bears have needed to boost their interior for years now and they finally did they by adding Drew Dalman at center.
Dalman is the third-highest-paid center in the NFL based on average annual value, so it is clear that the team expects him to be one of their biggest impact players. That is why, despite never taking a snap in Chicago, he is already the ninth most important Bears player.
Ranking most important Chicago Bears in 2025: Number 9 Drew Dalman
The Bears are making a bet on Dalman; there's no mistaking that. Dalman was a fourth-round pick in the 2021 NFL draft. He did not play as a rookie, but posted two solid seasons as a starter. However, he was not a Pro Bowl or All-Pro in either year.
In 2024, he started in nine games but was sidelined for a good portion of the year with an ankle injury. The Falcons saw enough in his backup to let Dalman walk without taking on the big salary. Does this say more about the Bears or the Falcons?
If the Bears acquire Dalman from 2022 and 2023, it may be about right for his salary, if not a slight overpay. If they get any less, it will look bad. However, Dalman will be just 27, and based on his salary, they assume the best is yet to come from this center.
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The Bears' offense will either make or break the team's success, and Caleb Williams' development remains the most crucial factor. Establishing a center in front of him for years to come would be huge. When you combine that with the expectations, it makes him an easy call as the ninth most important player.