After the initial wave of free agency, the Chicago Bears have been recognized as the most improved team in the NFL, according to Peter Schrager. Despite their upgrades, one key area still needs attention: the running back position. The Bears could address this by selecting Ashton Jeanty in the 2025 NFL Draft, a move that has been widely speculated, as noted by PFF’s Max Chadwick.
It’s hard to choose just one but this might be my favorite Ashton Jeanty run from last year because 9 different defenders have a chance to make a tackle and none can. pic.twitter.com/ILpzKQkPJ2
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) February 25, 2025
Chicago made significant changes to its interior offensive line, adding center Drew Dalman through free agency and acquiring guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson via trade. These moves provide a strong foundation for their offense, but the backfield remains a question mark. While D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson offer versatility, neither is seen as a true lead back. Chadwick suggests that if Jeanty is available at the 10th overall pick, the Bears would likely select him. Even if he isn’t, the depth of the 2025 draft class offers several potential starting-caliber running backs on Day 2.
Jeanty is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in this draft, regardless of position. Alongside Abdul Carter and Travis Hunter, he is viewed as a player who could make an immediate impact and potentially earn All-Pro honors in his rookie season. His draft stock continues to rise as analysts project him as an elite talent.
If the Bears draft Jeanty, he would enter a system led by new head coach Ben Johnson, whose offensive creativity could maximize his potential. Given Chicago’s need for a true lead back and the likelihood of an increased emphasis on the running game in 2025, Jeanty’s addition could be a perfect fit.