Will Campbell #66 of the LSU Tigers
The Chicago Bears‘ offensive line is a glaring weakness, and it’s no secret they need help. Heading into the 2024 offseason, the Bears will undoubtedly be focusing their efforts on overhauling their offensive line. Darnell Wright is the only player who feels like a true fixture on the unit, while the futures of key players such as left guard Teven Jenkins and center Coleman Shelton remain uncertain due to impending free agency. Left tackle Braxton Jones has shown flashes of potential but has not proven to be a standout. In short, the Bears need to make significant investments in the line, likely using both free agency and their first-round draft pick to solidify the group.
Naturally, offensive line has been a hot topic among Bears fans, with one name coming up more frequently than others: Will Campbell, LSU’s star left tackle. LSU has built a reputation for producing top-tier NFL talent along the offensive line, and Campbell is poised to be the next in line. Many projections have Campbell going to the Bears in the top 10, positioning him as an immediate upgrade for the Bears’ front five. However, there’s one problem: While Campbell is undoubtedly a talented prospect, it might be a huge mistake for the Bears to reach for him—especially if he doesn’t fully measure up to the top-tier expectations.
Bears Can’t Afford to Reach for Need
The Bears find themselves in a crucial position in the 2024 NFL Draft. With a likely top-10 pick (barring a late-season surge), Chicago will have a chance to add a potential game-changer to their roster. The idea of selecting Campbell might seem appealing for fans, who are eager to see an upgrade to the offensive line. However, there’s a reason why Chicago’s front office should be cautious.
While the Bears’ offensive line is a pressing issue, this upcoming draft class may not offer a blue-chip offensive lineman worth the high pick. Early evaluations suggest that while there are some solid prospects, few can be considered “star-caliber” players capable of making an immediate, significant impact at the NFL level. While some good players will undoubtedly come from this class, reaching for an offensive lineman with the No. 1 pick, when the top-tier prospects aren’t quite there, might not be the best move.
The smart move for Chicago would be to focus on taking the best player available on the board—regardless of position. There’s a strong possibility that another position, such as defensive line, could offer better value. The 2024 draft class boasts an exceptional crop of defensive linemen, both inside and at edge rusher, which could fill an immediate need for the Bears. Should Chicago pass up an elite edge rusher or interior lineman in favor of an offensive tackle who may or may not become a star? That is the dilemma facing general manager Ryan Poles and the Bears’ front office.
Don’t Rush the Draft Process
At this point, it’s still far too early to draw any definitive conclusions about who the Bears should target in the draft. We are still several months away from the Senior Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine, two critical events that will shape the draft landscape. The biggest shifts in rankings often take place during these events, where prospects can improve—or harm—their draft stock with standout performances or disappointing showings.
It’s possible that a hidden gem emerges as a potential offensive line star, but it’s also equally possible that a defensive prospect—perhaps even one of the elite edge rushers—proves too valuable for the Bears to pass up. The key for Chicago’s front office will be to keep an open mind and stick to their strategy of selecting the best player available. If they do this, they are more likely to land a player who can make an immediate impact, regardless of position.
Conclusion
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, the Chicago Bears are in a prime position to build upon their young core and address several key needs. While many fans want to see Will Campbell in a Bears uniform, the team must avoid the temptation to reach for an offensive line prospect just because it fills a need. Chicago’s priority should be to select the best player available when their pick arrives. Whether that’s a top-tier offensive lineman or a potential game-changing defensive player, the Bears must stay focused on maximizing the long-term success of their roster. The next few months will be crucial in determining who that best player is, but it’s clear that the Bears must remain disciplined and patient as they prepare for one of the most important drafts in recent history.
