Ryan Poles Sent A Clear Message By Spying On JC Davis At The Senior Bowl

Ryan Poles is a scout at heart. He’s always going to be where the action is during the pre-draft process. There was no way he was going to miss attending the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, this week. The first practice took place on Tuesday. It didn’t take long to find Poles in his usual spot, watching the one-on-one drills between the offensive and defensive linemen. This shouldn’t be a surprise. Chicago has needs in both areas, and there is a strong possibility one of the players in those drills will be wearing navy blue by the end of April.

While a number of defensive linemen stood out during the action, one offensive tackle stole a few moments of his own. That was Illinois’ J.C. Davis. Going into this past season, most draft experts saw a developmental tackle with lots of talent but not enough polish. Based on what he showed in drills, he’s come a long way. His size, quick feet, and strong hands made it difficult for rushers to get by him. Poles was watching carefully. The Bears GM loves big, athletic tackles. Davis fits that profile to perfection.

Ryan Poles will likely take a left tackle in the draft at some point.

Chicago is in a tricky spot at the position. Ozzy Trapilo had become their starter midway through the season and was playing well. Sadly, a torn patella ended his year in the wild card round. He is unlikely to return until after the 2026 season has already begun. Even worse is that both Braxton Jones and Theo Benedet are free agents. Right now, the Bears have no definitive starter for opening day this September. It is possible they will bring back Benedet and sign a free agent, but that isn’t guaranteed to solve anything.

There is a strong possibility Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson will go back to the draft to seek out help. Davis would be right up their wheelhouse. His natural pass-protecting skill alone makes him an attractive option. His 330 lbs frame should also lend itself well to Johnson’s run-first attack. Current projections have Davis going early on day three of the draft. However, a strong week in Mobile will likely push him into day two. Don’t be shocked if the Bears target him in the 2nd or 3rd rounds.