The 2025 NFL Draft provided plenty of excitement for fans of the Chicago Bears. With new head coach Ben Johnson at the helm, the Bears made headline-worthy picks and set themselves up with vital assets for the future. In this article, we'll break down the highlights of the Bears draft, analyze their top picks, and explore the prospects still available as Chicago looks to build a playoff-contending roster.

First-Round Focus: Colston Loveland Joins the Bears

With the 10th overall pick, the Chicago Bears selected tight end Colston Loveland from Michigan. Loveland’s selection shows a clear strategy from coach Ben Johnson, who sees Loveland filling a Sam LaPorta-style role in his offense. This addition gives new quarterback Caleb Williams another dynamic option in the passing game. For more insight into Chicago’s first round and how Loveland fits, read The Athletic’s expert analysis.

According to Loveland, Johnson told him, “Yeah, you remind me a lot of [LaPorta]. We can do a lot of things—obviously we did a lot of things with LaPorta.” It’s clear the Bears are prioritizing versatile, high-upside weapons to support their young quarterback.

Day 2 and Beyond: Best Available for the Bears

After the first wave, the Bears draft looks set to address both the offensive line and skill positions. While Colston Loveland bolsters the tight end room, gaps remain at running back and the interior offensive line. Top prospects like Kaleb Johnson (RB, Iowa) remain on the board and could provide valuable depth behind D’Andre Swift. The Athletic ranks Johnson highly and notes his play style is “reminiscent of DeMarco Murray.”

On offense, Johnson and TreVeyon Henderson (RB, Ohio State) would be intriguing additions. At receiver, options include Jaylin Noel (Iowa State) and Tre Harris (Ole Miss), both viewed as strong fits for the Bears’ evolving passing attack. Attention to these areas will be key as the Bears look to round out a potent offense.

On the defensive side, look for the Bears draft to consider edge rushers JT Tuimoloau (Ohio State) and Landon Jackson (Arkansas), alongside versatile safeties like Nick Emmanwori (South Carolina), all still available heading into Day 2.

The Full Bears Draft Slate for 2025

Chicago entered the draft with seven picks, including their first, two seconds (nos. 39 and 41), a third, a fifth, and two sevenths. For a comprehensive look at all 257 draft picks and the Bears’ updated selection list, visit the CBSSports.com team-by-team draft tracker.

Here’s a quick rundown of the Bears’ current picks after Round 1:

• Round 1: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan (Pick 10)
• Round 2: Pick 39 (from Panthers)
• Round 2: Pick 41
• Round 3: Pick 72
• Round 5: Pick 148
• Round 7: Pick 233 (from Bengals)
• Round 7: Pick 240 (from Vikings via Browns)

What the Experts Are Saying

Analysts largely praised the Bears draft strategy so far. The team’s focus on playmakers and offensive line help is designed to maximize Caleb Williams’ rookie contract and accelerate contention. NBC Sports highlights how Chicago’s investments in recent years—like trading a first-rounder for D.J. Moore, drafting Rome Odunze last year, and now adding Loveland—suggest an offense rich in potential. For a broad summary of the first round, including big trades and surprises, see NBC’s 2025 NFL Draft highlights.

Looking Ahead: Next Steps for Chicago

Day 2 and Day 3 of the Bears draft promise more action as the franchise looks to fill its remaining needs. Expect Chicago to shore up the defensive line, consider adding a physical running back, and continue building depth at wide receiver. With a strong foundation developing under Ben Johnson, the Bears are laying the groundwork for long-term success.

Stay tuned as we continue our Bears draft coverage with updates on every pick and analysis of Chicago's emerging young core. For live updates, pick-by-pick grades, and more, follow the experts at The Athletic and CBS Sports linked above.