Ryan Poles hasn’t been bad with drafting for the Chicago Bears since taking over as GM. It is evident he’s acquired some good talent since 2022. Among the highlights are Kyler Gordon, Jaquan Brisker, Braxton Jones, Darnell Wright, and Gervon Dexter. Hopes remain high for Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze going into their second years. However, the main issue for the Chicago Bears is they haven’t secured any true stars yet. If Poles wants to get this team past the elite of the NFC, he has to start scoring some legitimate blue-chip players.
One thing about those types is they tend to stand out immediately. If this is the case, Poles may have delivered his magnum opus with the 2025 draft class. Barely a week into training camp this year, and one thing is evident. Colston Loveland and Luther Burden are legit. The Bears’ 10th and 39th overall picks have given the defense problems from the moment they stepped on the field. They’re not only making frequent catches, but doing so while getting legitimately open. It isn’t a fluke.
Ryan Poles may have struck gold in back-to-back picks.
Aside from fortifying his protection, finding offensive firepower for Williams was always the goal. Loveland was a primary target for months. Head coach Ben Johnson saw visions of Pro Bowler Sam LaPorta when watching the Michigan tight end. It was such a natural fit. Burden was a different story. Most experts figured the Missouri receiver was too talented to fall out of the 1st round. It was a big surprise when he was still on the board when the Bears picked again. That made the decision easy. His size, speed, and ability to make plays after the catch were all things Johnson would love to use. Many felt he was never utilized to his full potential in college. Under this coaching staff, he could blossom.
Early returns suggest those assessments were correct.
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Absolutely no one ever mocked LB3 1st overall at any point in time in any universe… there’s waaay too many free drugs available at Bears training camp.
Check back after the season and we’ll see.
Why is it that when Poles misses on a draft pick it’s all his fault, however when he hit on a pick it’s because the coach pushed for that pick? Is Johnson the only coach that has done this for him or did Eberflus push for poor players and Poles obliged?
It’s well known that most GMs will try to get the players his head coach asks for.
I am so tired of the Double standard on here.
Wait, Poles actually hit on some draft picks? Are you allowed to say that on this site?
I wasn’t thrilled with the Loveland pick so high but he looks like a weapon Ben can utilize. And as long as Burden works hard and isn’t a diva, he’s a stud too. Good picks by Poles.
BUT it is only training camp. Jury is out until the regular season when we truly know what we’ve got.
@Dr. Steven Sallie, your top 2026 Draft RB picks are exactly what I suggested months ago. We actually agree!!!