2025 NFL Mock Draft: Bears address defensive line in first round

The Chicago Bears are entering the 2024 season with massive question marks at the defensive tackle position. Head coach Matt Eberflus will rely on sophomores Gervon Dexter Sr. and Zacch Pickens to take sizable steps forward in their development. Veteran d-tackle Andrew Billings will be tasked with being the primary run stopper.

From an outsider’s perspective, this makes defensive tackle one of the largest needs on the Bears roster. If Dexter and Pickens are unable to handle a significant increase in workload, general manager Ryan Poles may have to consider utilizing his first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on a premium prospect at the position. That’s precisely what NFL Spin Zone projected the Bears to do in their latest mock draft, which sends Kentucky defensive tackle Deone Walker to the Bears with the 16th overall pick.

“Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles now has the quarterback and all the weapons,” Sayre Bedinger wrote. “His focus needs to continue to shift to building in the trenches on both sides of the ball. The Bears have done a good job of at least taking shots on offensive line talent under Poles, both through the draft and free agency. For their first-round pick in 2025, the Bears need to go after another big man.