4 reasons Bears fans should stay optimistic after tough Week 14 loss to Packers

Chicago Bears’ rookie class is turning into something special

It’s impossible to ignore the job that GM Ryan Poles did in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Chicago Bears have several rookies starring in this season’s playoff run, beginning with their first-round pick, Colston Loveland.

Loveland was recently named one of Pro Football Focus’s top-15 rookies in the NFL this season (he ranked No. 6). After what was a slow and disappointing start for the former Michigan star, Loveland now has 35 catches for 435 yards and four touchdowns. He’s quickly become one of Caleb Williams’ favorite targets.

Speaking of those favorite targets, second-round pick Luther Burden III is also emerging late this season. He, too, is on PFF’s top-15 list (No. 11) and was fantastic serving as the Bears’ WR1 against Green Bay. Rome Odunze missed the game with a foot injury.

Burden’s arrival is happening a bit later than many Bears fans expected, but it’s coming at the right time. His 2026 outlook will be through the moon.

Fellow second-round pick Ozzy Trapilo is now the Bears’ starting left tackle (and playing well), and seventh-round running back Kyle Monangai is one of the most valuable players on offense.

So, yeah. Poles did work in the 2025 NFL Draft.

NEXT: Reason 4, Bears still control their own destiny

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5