Despite numerous reports, rumors, and “smoke” most of Thursday, the Chicago Bears stayed at ten and picked Michigan tight end Colston Loveland. It should come as no surprise that the Bears picked an offensive player for new head coach Ben Johnson in their first draft. Tight end wasn’t a huge need, but Johnson likes using 12 personnel, and this will provide quarterback Caleb Williams another weapon in the passing game.
I ran through a mock simulation on Pro Football Network to get an idea of how the remainder of the draft could fall for the Bears.
39. Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina – Safety wasn’t my intention, nor is it a big need for the 2025 Bears, but the freakishly athletic Emmanwori (6’3”, 220) was too good of value to pass up. Dennis Allen would get him in the lineup as a big nickel, matching up against teams that run two tight ends, and in 2026, he’d slide into the starting lineup.
41. Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas – With his non-stop motor, Jackson has some fun tape. He’s an explosive athlete with strong and active hands.
72. Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa – Johnson is a patient runner and would fit Chicago’s zone scheme and has the size (6’1”, 224) to run through arm tackles.
148. J.J. Pegues, DT, Ole Miss – The Bears need interior depth, and Pegues can play either defensive tackle spot. He’s a converted tight end who played short-yardage running back for Ole Miss.
233. Drew Kendall, OC, Boston College – Kendall is an experienced center with good technique, but his long-term outlook in the NFL will be predicated on whether he can also play guard.
240. Collin Oliver, LB, Oklahoma State – The converted defensive end is a good blitzer and pass rusher, but is still learning the linebacker position. He’d provide depth and special teams play.