The Great Chicago Bears Draft Pick Caper: How Many Do They ACTUALLY Have?
Ah, the Chicago Bears. A team steeped in glorious history, a fanbase known for its unwavering loyalty (and questionable taste in hats), and a perennial question mark when it comes to the NFL Draft: just how many picks do they actually have?
Let's face it, Bears fans are used to a rollercoaster ride when it comes to draft day. One year they're trading away picks for established veterans (looking at you, Khalil Mack trade), the next they're hoarding selections like a squirrel stockpiling nuts for winter. So, what's the deal for the 2025 draft? Buckle up, folks, because it's a bit of a doozy.
The Great Tradepocalypse of 2024: Did They Trade Away the Future...Again?
We all remember the head-scratching moves of 2024. Trading away Justin Fields for a conditional pick that might turn into a fourth-rounder depending on how much he plays in Pittsburgh? Let's just say some fans needed a serious dose of deep dish pizza to cope. But fear not, loyal subjects of the Monsters of the Midway, because it seems like GM Ryan Poles learned his lesson... maybe.
This time around, Poles seems to be taking a more measured approach. Sure, they did snag that shiny new wide receiver (is it Allen Robinson this time, or maybe Odell Beckham Jr. makes a grand return?) by giving up a third-round pick, but things are looking a little calmer on the trade front.
So, How Many Picks Are We Talking Here?
Here's the (somewhat) good news, Bears fans: barring any last-minute wheeling and dealing, you can expect to see your team trot out with the following draft capital in 2025:
- A cool first-round pick! No trades here, folks. This could be a prime opportunity to grab that missing piece to the puzzle, whether it's a stud linebacker to chase down elusive quarterbacks or an offensive lineman who won't leave Justin Fields (or whoever's under center) running for his life.
- A couple of picks in the later rounds. We're talking mid-to-late fourth round and a fifth-round selection. Not exactly earth-shattering, but hey, every pick counts, right? You never know when you might unearth a hidden gem (looking at you, Robbie Gould!).
However, there's always a "however" with the Bears, isn't there? There's a chance they could snag some compensatory picks depending on free agency movement. Basically, if they lose a bunch of valuable free agents and don't sign any big names, the NFL might take pity on them and throw them a couple extra picks. Don't hold your breath, though.
The Bottom Line: A Smidge More Stable, But Still a Wild Ride
So, there you have it, Bears fans. The 2025 draft picture is a little clearer, but let's be honest, with this team, anything can happen. Will they use their first-round pick on the next big thing, or will they trade it away for a bag of peanuts and a promise? Only time (and maybe Ryan Poles) will tell. But one thing's for sure: draft day in Chicago is never boring. Here's to hoping for some solid picks and maybe, just maybe, a sprinkle of good fortune for the Monsters of the Midway!