As the Chicago Bears started to piece together their moves in free agency, there was a strong thought that Ashton Jeanty may be the team's top target with the tenth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, as we get closer to the draft, that thought is being erased by the idea that Jeanty may not even make it to when the Bears are on the clock.
If Jeanty does get taken, the team has the 39th, 41st, and 72nd pick in the draft to consider taking a running back, assuming they don't want to wait until the final day of the draft. The Bears will have options.
TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State
Henderson may eventually end up as the best fit for the Bears. The team has D’Andre Swift, but when you watch Henderson, his skill set is essentially what the Ben Johnson offense asks from the running back position.
The questions with Henderson are whether he makes it to No. 39 and whether the Bears are looking to complement Swift or replace him. If he is available and they are not tied to Swift, this may be the best fit.
Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State
Judkins looks more like the player who would complement Swift in the second round, as he did with Henderson. His more between-the-tackles style allows the team to grind out yards with him.
However, he lacks the wiggle to break big runs and is not nearly the threat in the passing game
Kaleb Johnson, Iowa
Some see Johnson as one of the more complete backs in the draft, but while he has size, agility, and a big run rate that shows speed, he also comes in with questions about his tested speed, and the scheme that he is drafted into. Most teams will not view him as a gap runner and only so many will see him as a fit.
The Bears could certainly use him next to Swift, and his particular draft profile may lead him to fall to the 72nd overall pick. He would be a great fit there.
Dylan Sampson, Tennessee
Dylan Sampson would likely be more of a player who could replace Swift, as he brings a lot of viability to the passing game. He can bring some big play potential and could also be an improvement over Swift in pass protection. Sampson is the most likely to slip to 72 as well.
Cam Skattebo, Arizona State
Cam Skattebo could be the perfect fit for the Bears as a player who can bring some power besides the speed of Swift. Skattebo is like a mini David Montgomery in his running style, and he also has strong pass-catching qualities that would make him a unique chess piece. The question with Skattebo is whether 72 is the right price, or if the team would be best hoping he falls into day three due to his questionable long speed.