Five Bears at No. 10 NFL Draft scenarios: The Athletic: From Ashton Jeanty to an edge rusher
NFL Draft approaches, the Chicago Bears find themselves at a pivotal juncture with the No. 10 overall pick. General Manager Ryan Poles and Head Coach Ben Johnson have emphasized a “best player available” strategy, which could lead them to select a premium talent like Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. However, the Bears also have pressing needs on the defensive side of the ball, particularly at edge rusher. This article explores five potential scenarios for the Bears at pick No. 10, weighing the merits of drafting Jeanty versus bolstering the pass rush.
Ashton Jeanty is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and productive running backs in the 2025 draft class. In the 2024 season, he led the FBS with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, earning unanimous All-American honors and finishing as the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy His combination of vision, balance, and acceleration makes him a potential centerpiece in Ben Johnson’s offense.
Despite concerns about his pass protection and limited receiving usage, Jeanty’s elite collegiate production speaks for itself. His ability to make defenders miss and gain yards after contact could provide a significant boost to the Bears’ offense, which ranked 25th in rushing yards per game last season
The Bears have invested in their defensive line but still lack a consistent edge rusher opposite Montez Sweat. General Manager Ryan Poles has emphasized the importance of having “waves of pass rushers,” and selecting a top-tier edge rusher could solidify the defensive front
Prospects like Mykel Williams from Georgia or Abdul Carter from Penn State could be available at No. 10. Williams is known for his strength against the run, an area where the Bears need improvement . Carter, on the other hand, is considered one of the top defensive talents in the draft
Drafting an edge rusher would address a critical need and potentially elevate the Bears’ defense to a higher level.
With three valuable Day 2 picks already at their disposal, the Bears could consider trading down from No. 10 to acquire more assets. Teams like Indianapolis (picks No. 14 and No. 80) or Denver (picks No. 20 and No. 51) could be potential trade partners
A trade down would allow the Bears to address multiple needs, such as adding depth to the offensive line or acquiring a developmental quarterback. However, this approach would require careful evaluation to ensure that the team doesn’t miss out on a premium talent like Jeanty or a top-tier edge rusher.
With Braxton Jones entering the final year of his rookie contract and Joe Thuney also set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, the Bears could look to the future by selecting a left tackle at No. 10. Prospects like Will Campbell from LSU or Armand Membou from Missouri could be options
Drafting a left tackle would provide long-term stability to the offensive line and allow the Bears to evaluate Jones and Thuney’s performances in the upcoming season. This move would be more about future planning than immediate impact.
While the Bears have invested in their receiving corps, adding another dynamic playmaker could further enhance the passing game. Prospects like Tetairoa McMillan or Matthew Golden could be available at No.
Drafting a wide receiver would provide quarterback Caleb Williams with more weapons and could open up the offense. However, this approach would depend on the Bears’ evaluation of their current receivers and the available talent in the draft.
The Chicago Bears face a critical decision at No. 10 in the 2025 NFL Draft. Selecting Ashton Jeanty would provide a dynamic playmaker for the offense, while drafting an edge rusher would address a pressing defensive need. Trading down could offer additional picks to address multiple needs, and selecting a left tackle or wide receiver could enhance the team’s future prospects. Ultimately, the Bears’ decision will depend on their evaluation of the available talent and how they align with the team’s long-term goals.
