Draft Expert Reveals Who Bears Are Getting If They Go O-line In 1st Round
The Chicago Bears don’t know which direction they’ll go in the 1st round yet. They still haven’t attended the scouting combine and must do the pro day visits, assembling the last of their data. From there, GM Ryan Poles must determine how the first nine picks of the draft unfold. Chicago has a chance to get a good player at #10 overall, but so much hinges on what other teams do. There is no shortage of possible directions it could go. If you ask most experts, the offensive line is the safest bet.
This isn’t a surprise. Caleb Williams was sacked 67 times last season. That can’t continue if the Bears want to elevate him. Finding high-end talent in the draft is a big step towards fixing it. Matt Miller of ESPN has evaluated the top prospects in this 2025 class. From his point of view, there are two prospects who are true 1st round talents. Here is who they are and what NFL players they seem to emulate the most.
Short answer? The Bears should have good options.
Will Campbell, LSU (No. 7)
Comp: Dion Dawkins, Buffalo Bills
Campbell will spark intense debates in NFL scouting rooms as teams try to decide if the three-year starter at left tackle will remain at that spot in the pros. The 6-foot-6, 323-pounder is a technician with great agility and balance, but his shorter arms (under 33 inches) and an upright stance which lacks base power could force a move to guard. Whether he’s on the inside or outside, I confidently give Campbell a Round 1 grade.
Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas (No. 8)
Comp: Rashawn Slater, Los Angeles Chargers
Banks has been the anchor of the Longhorns’ offensive line since arriving on campus as a freshman. Though his 6-foot-4, 320-pound frame might scare some scouts in pass protection, Banks’ elite footwork makes up for a lack of length and has helped him allow pressures on an FBS-low 0.8% of snaps. He is also an elite run blocker with the power and agility to overwhelm defenders. Banks has the potential to be a top run blocker in the NFL, either at tackle or kicking inside to guard.
The Chicago Bears’ choice will come down to Ben Johnson.
His preferences on the offensive line likely differ from Luke Getsy’s and Shane Waldron’s. New offensive line coach Dan Roushar has maintained a steady focus on key attributes during his long career in the NFL and college. Historically, he prefers good athletes who are technically efficient, such as Campbell. However, Johnson likes having elite run blockers, which shifts more toward Banks. This may come down to the interview process and which one of them exhibits the mental fortitude the Chicago Bears tend to prefer. Don’t be surprised if the pendulum swings in a certain direction by the end of March, especially after free agency settles. Either way, it sounds like the team should get somebody good.
