As the 2024 NFL season winds down with Super Bowl 59 around the corner, we are introducing our preliminary Bears on SI Staff Mock Draft. This initial version presents our various contributors’ predictions regarding the Chicago Bears’ choice in the first round at the 10th spot. Overall, a common prediction dominates the consensus, barring a rogue prediction aimed at bolstering the defensive lineup. Matters surrounding Will Campbell’s compatibility with the Bears are, in essence, only about his availability in the first round for the Bears’ new General Manager, Ryan Poles. If Campbell sticks until the 10th spot, it’s safe to say he’ll join the Bears. This prediction almost cemented.
Campbell’s profile may not be that of a once-in-a-lifetime player and does not measure up to Joe Alt’s from the previous year. However, he still brings valuable versatility to a team like the Bears. In his professional journey, he may find himself transitioning to guard, and there’s even a potential move to center at some point. In the best-case scenario, he could prove his mettle as a left tackle. For a team such as the Chicago Bears, looking potentially to field up to four new faces on their offensive line, Campbell could be a valuable fuel-injected starter, adapting to whatever position they may need him.
As the current year does not seem promising in terms of offensive line recruits, the Bears will count themselves lucky if they can bag Campbell at No. 10. His absence in the initial few picks due to a shortage of top-tier offensive linemen could be a boon for the Bears. With an impressive size of 6’6″, 323 lbs, Cellina would become a guard for the Chicago Bears until at least 2026 and may even retain the position if Kiran Amegadjie progresses this season at the tackle. Though Campbell may not sport an exceptionally long reach, his nimble footwork has wowed talent scouts and analysts alike.
If Campbell is no longer available when the Bears come to select, it is anticipated they may take a step back. They could see Shemar Stewart as their answer to Cam Jordan for Dennis Allen. It is a rarity to come by a lineman who stands at 6’6″, weighs 290 lbs, and possesses the agility of Stewart, a player barely scratching the tip of his career possibilities. Don’t let his reduced sack count mislead you – Stewart has shown significant disruption as a pass rusher and proved his mettle in the run game. His stock is expected to increase considerably in the approaching draft season.
In the previous season in Detroit, the dynamism of the Jahmyr Gibbs/David Montgomery duo formed an electric partnership with Johnson. Similarly, the current Bears’ backfield, starring D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson, looks promising. Given the opportunity to join a potential generational quarterback with a potential generational running back, wise choices should be made, followed by a solid plan for bolstering your line during the remaining draft days or through free agency.
The Bears’ recent smart decisions imply that this trend will likely continue with significant investment in enhancing the offensive line via the free agency. Such a gamble would free them up to select the very best talent at their disposal, irrespective of their post. The 10th selection could gift them Ashton Jeanty, a formidable runner noted for his superb balance when in contact and outstanding agility, a testament to the astounding 163 missed tackles he forced in 2024.