Chicago Bears (Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports)
In just under two weeks, the Chicago Bears and first year general manager Ryan Poles will approach their biggest test in their first offseason together.
Poles has to find a way to navigate the 2022 NFL Draft with a much different-looking roster than the one he left in Kansas City, and with just six picks overall. To be exact, the Bears do not own picks in the first, fourth or seventh round. Their selections come in the second (two), third (one), fifth (two) and sixth (one) rounds.
With plenty of work to do to surround second-year quarterback Justin Fields, Poles has to hit a home run in his first draft with the Bears. Fields’ success in 2022 depends largely on Poles finding him another playmaker and some additional protection.
Although the offensive scheme change will help some, Fields cannot do it all on his own. Poles is going to have to use these picks wisely, and look carefully for some possible steals.
The Chicago Bears could find some staggering value picks in the 2022 NFL Draft if they play their cards right.
As it stands, the Bears have needs at wide receiver, offensive line, cornerback, safety, linebacker, punter as well as depth along the defensive line. The only positions which are truly comfortable, right now, are at quarterback, running back, kicker and possibly tight end.
Trading back with one of those second rounders is a looming possibility which many fans would prefer to see. If the Bears can end up with at least seven picks in the draft, Poles has a better chance at filling these needs.
This class is very deep at certain positions, which will result in a lot of value coming at certain stages of the draft. Poles should keep a keen eye out on the following five players, who might be available later than originally projected — or, they could bring even more value than their current projection.
Use your (arrows) to browse
