Bears in 'Good Spot' to Land LT or DE at Pick 25

NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah says Chicago can find a Day 1 starter on either side of the line without needing to trade up.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 12:15pm

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The Chicago Bears hold the 25th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, and according to NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah, they are in a 'good spot' to land either a starting left tackle or defensive end with that selection. Jeremiah believes the Bears can find a plug-and-play option at either position without needing to trade up from the 25th spot.

Why it matters

The Bears have needs at both left tackle and defensive end, and being able to address one of those positions with their first-round pick would be a significant boost to their roster. With the 25th overall pick, the Bears will have several intriguing options to choose from at both positions.

The details

At left tackle, Jeremiah highlighted prospects like Clemson's Blake Miller, Georgia's Monroe Freeling, Alabama's Kadyn Proctor, and Utah's Caleb Lomu as potential options for the Bears at 25. On the defensive line, Miami's Akheem Mesidor and Auburn's Keldric Faulk are two edge rushers that could be available. Jeremiah praised Mesidor's relentless motor and ability to win from both the outside and inside.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft will take place from April 27-29 in Kansas City, Missouri.
  • The Bears will attend the NFL Scouting Combine next week in Indianapolis to further evaluate prospects.

The players

Daniel Jeremiah

NFL Network draft analyst who provided analysis on the Bears' options with the 25th overall pick.

Ryan Poles

General Manager of the Chicago Bears.

Ben Johnson

Head Coach of the Chicago Bears.

Ozzy Trapilo

Chicago Bears offensive lineman expected to miss at least the first half of the 2023 season due to a patellar tendon injury.

Braxton Jones

Chicago Bears offensive lineman set to become a free agent.

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What they’re saying

“There are some years where your need and where you're picking and you're like, 'Oh, crap, we better move one way or the other.' I think they can just sit right where they are and see how it falls.”

— Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Network Draft Analyst (suntimes.com)

“They're in a good spot.”

— Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Network Draft Analyst (suntimes.com)

What’s next

The Bears will continue to evaluate prospects at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis next week as they prepare for the 2023 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Bears are in a favorable position with the 25th overall pick, as they can likely find a starting-caliber player at either left tackle or defensive end without needing to trade up. This gives them flexibility to address a key need on their roster and set themselves up for success in the 2023 season.