One thing about Ryan Poles is that he’s not afraid to be straightforward when answering questions. Ryan Pace always liked to keep the media at a distance, treating them like an assortment of spies that would leak his precious information to the enemy. Poles understands the value of secrecy in certain aspects but is also surprisingly straightforward in others. The Chicago Bears GM proved that again during his interview with the media down in Arizona for the annual owners meetings.
He covered a wide range of topics, from the retooled wide receiver room to the departure of David Montgomery in free agency. Things got particularly interesting when the topic shifted to the draft. Chicago has done a good job shoring up critical areas of the roster with high-end talent. However, there are two or three problematic spots that need addressing. Offensive right tackle seems like the biggest. Poles failed to land any of the top free agents this past month. While he may still wait the market out to see if somebody noteworthy becomes available, he admitted the Bears would likely go hunting for their solution in the draft.
Ryan Poles should have plenty of options.
Most draft experts believe the Bears will pounce on their solution immediately with the 9th overall pick. Three clear options should be on the board. Peter Skoronski of Northwestern is considered the safest choice but has below-average arm length. Paris Johnson Jr. of Ohio State has terrific size and length and good movement skills. Broderick Jones of Georgia is the best athlete of the three, showing great quickness and agility along with a violent streak this regime would like. Darnell Wright of Tennessee is also a sleeper if the Bears decide to trade down again. He was dominant in 2022 against SEC competition.
There might even be some quality options in the 2nd round if Ryan Poles decides to wait. Matthew Bergeron of Syracuse has gained steam since the Senior Bowl and would be a strong scheme fit. Giant Dawand Jones of Ohio State certainly has the size and length they look for. His mobility is questionable. There is also Braeden Daniels of Utah worth looking into. There are multiple ways Poles could approach this. Right now, it seems like he might take one of two approaches.
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He will take one at #9 or move down a few spots and take one wherever he ends up. It will be interesting to see how the draft unfolds.
