Luke Newman turned heads at Holy Cross and held his own in the Big Ten, but his future with the Chicago Bears is anything but guaranteed.
Drafted in the sixth round in 2025, the versatile O-lineman enters training camp fighting for a roster spot in a crowded and competitive interior line group. With veterans like Ryan Bates and Bill Murray also vying for backup roles, Newman’s spot on the 53-man roster will hinge on how well he performs this summer.
In his latest roster projection, Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron has Murray beating Newman out.
“Sixth-round rookie Luke Newman, Doug Kramer and Ricky Stromberg all popped into my head as potential fits for the 53-man roster,” Infante wrote on July 21.
“I had Bill Murray edge Newman out at guard by a smidge. You run the risk of someone claiming Newman off waivers, but I think the veteran is the safer move. Bates’ ability to play both guard and center makes having two centers on the 53 redundant, in my opinion.”
Newman Showed Solid Versatility in College
GettyWill OL Luke Newman make the Chicago Bears 53-man roster, or will he get cut?
Newman began his collegiate career at Holy Cross in 2020, originally playing a limited role as a freshman due to the COVID-shortened season. He quickly grew into a cornerstone of the Crusaders’ offensive line, starting all 13 games as a sophomore at left tackle in 2021. Over the next two seasons, he remained a dominant force, earning All‑Patriot League first-team honors each year and becoming a two-time FCS All‑American—first-team in 2022 and second-team in 2023.
Year 4 at Holy Cross, Newman started all 13 games at left tackle, serving as Phil Steele’s Patriot League Offensive Lineman of the Year. He played a critical role in an offense that ranked sixth nationally in rushing (264.2 yards per game) and eighth in scoring (37 points per game). He capped off his FCS career in 2023 with another 11 starts at LT.
Seeking tougher competition, Newman transferred to Michigan State for his fifth and final year in 2024. He seamlessly transitioned from tackle to left guard, starting all 12 games and playing a team‑high 739 offensive snaps. His performance in the Big Ten earned him honorable‑mention All‑Big Ten honors from both coaches and media.
The NFL is a different beast, though, and sixth-rounders frequently get cut.
Exploring Luke Newman’s Chances of Being Cut By the Chicago Bears
Bates, who returns after missing most of last season with a shoulder injury, will be key in whether or not Newman sticks around.
Releasing Bates would free up $4 million in cap space, and if injury were to strike him again before the regular season, the Bears will probably roll with Newman over Bates. If Bates stays healthy, though, it should be one heck of a competition with Murray also in the mix.
Thus, while Newman has versatility, durability and a potentially high ceiling, he could still land on the outside looking in.
To maximize his chances, Newman will have to capitalize on whatever opportunities he gets during training camp and the preseason. The rookie OL’s path to making the roster will likely depend on his ability to outplay seasoned veterans in reps at both guard and center while offering cheaper, younger upside.
