The Chicago Bears’ decision on which offensive lineman to pick in the 2025 NFL Draft is a hot topic, particularly surrounding whether they should choose a guard graded lower or select a tackle and move them to guard. This debate is expected to continue until the Bears make their selection at No. 10 in Round 1. The draft is always exciting, offering a glimpse into the future filled with hope and possibilities.
While it’s easier to get excited about skill position players, the offensive line debate remains crucial. According to respected draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah, Bears fans shouldn’t be discouraged by suggestions that they need to take a guard. “It might not be glamorous,” Jeremiah acknowledged in a media conference, “but if you watched the Bears last season, you might be excited about taking a guard with the 10th pick.”
#Alabama iOL Tyler Booker has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. He only allowed one sack during his three-year career. pic.twitter.com/tqFIonVaQ8
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) January 3, 2025
Jeremiah’s argument is compelling, especially when you consider the struggles of quarterbacks like Caleb Williams, who was sacked 68 times last season. There’s a clear divide on who the Bears should pick among linemen. Some believe there are no guards worthy of the 10th pick, while others argue the best available blocker could be the right choice regardless of position.
Jeremiah has been particularly vocal about one guard, Tyler Booker from Alabama. Initially, he suggested the Bears take Texas tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. at No. 10, but later shifted his focus to Booker in another mock draft.
Banks’ transition from tackle to guard is a potential solution, though it sparks the age-old NFL debate: why move a player from a position they excel at? ESPN’s Matt Miller argues that Banks is a top talent, with exceptional agility and quick feet, even though he’s only 6’4″. Jeremiah, however, has some concerns about Banks’ play, noting he sometimes sets too deep, which could lead to problems at the guard position where the pass rush is more direct.
There’s a possibility that Banks’ arm length could be more suited for tackle, but at 320 pounds, his physicality may actually make him better suited for guard. The Bears already have a left tackle in Braxton Jones, and another potential tackle in Kiran Amegadjie, so the tackle-to-guard conversion might be worth considering.
As for Booker, Jeremiah believes he has the potential to be drafted at No. 10, despite other mock drafts projecting him to go later. Jeremiah described Booker as a consistent, powerful player who’s praised for his leadership and work ethic by those at Alabama. This kind of leadership could be valuable for the Bears, particularly at guard, after Teven Jenkins’ inconsistent play last season.
If Booker is talented enough to go at No. 13 to the Miami Dolphins, the Bears could either trade back to No. 12 or take him at No. 10. Regardless of which lineman they pick—whether a guard or a tackle moved to guard—it seems like the Bears will end up with a player who can effectively protect their quarterback.
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