Bears Projected to Improve Caleb Williams' Protection in NFL Draft
As the 2024 NFL season continues, it becomes clearer that Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles has a long offseason ahead of him. A 4-6 record through 10 games has the Bears sitting at the bottom of the NFC North, putting them on track to miss the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season.
With the postseason being nothing more than a pipedream, Bears fans are likely wondering which changes Poles has in store for the offseason. While several areas of the roster must be addressed, upgrading the offensive line should be at the top of the list if Chicago wants franchise quarterback Caleb Williams to succeed.
According to Spotrac, the Bears only have four offensive linemen under contract next season. That's why CBS Sports' Josh Edwards has Chicago drafting Arizona offensive tackle Jonah Savaiinaea with the 2025 NFL draft's 14th overall pick.
"Caleb Williams has some much-needed confidence after (Week 11's) offensive showing," Edwards wrote. "But the Bears need to stoke that confidence by upgrading his protection this offseason."
A glance at Savaiinaea makes it easy to understand why the Bears would love to add the promising Samoan to their offensive line.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 336 pounds, the Arizona blocker already has the perfect frame to find NFL success. His quick feet and solid football IQ ensure that he's usually in the right place at the right time while his agility and strength help keep his quarterback protected.
Savaiinaea is also a coach's dream. While some O-line prospects are only effective in certain situations, the junior Wildcat has demonstrated the ability to play both tackle roles — as well as right guard — during his time in the NCAA.
Savaiinaea has provided a reliable blocking presence throughout his time at Arizona and it shows during his current performance. Through 12 games this season, the promising prospect has played to career-high 82.7 pass block and 72.1 overall offense grades on Pro Football Focus compared to last year's marks of 81.7 and 69.1, respectively.
With the ability to play multiple offensive line positions, the Bears have every reason to keep an eye on Savaiinaea as next year's draft nears.
Athlon Sports' Luke Easterling listed the Arizona product as the 2025 draft's No. 1-rated offensive lineman back on Nov. 11, meaning there could be plenty of competition for Savaiinaea's services come April.
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