GM Ryan Poles Jumped at the Chance to Add Two Pro Bowl Guards Before the Free Agency Window Even Opened

In the high-stakes world of the NFL, where roster construction can make or break a team’s season, General Managers (GMs) play a critical role in shaping the future of their franchises. A GM’s decisions can reverberate through the entire organization, setting the tone for the season, enhancing team chemistry, and, ultimately, influencing whether a team reaches the postseason or falls short. For Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles, the 2025 offseason became a momentous turning point in his tenure, as he made a bold and calculated decision to sign two Pro Bowl-caliber offensive guards before the start of free agency.

This decision was a remarkable move for a franchise that had struggled in recent years to build a consistent and competitive offensive line. The Bears’ offensive line had been one of the weakest units in the league, and addressing it became an urgent priority. Poles, who took over as the Bears’ GM in 2022, inherited a team in need of a rebuild, particularly along the offensive line. The Bears had shown flashes of promise but lacked the depth and consistency needed to compete in a division with tough, physical teams.

By adding two Pro Bowl guards—players who have proven themselves at the highest level—Poles made it clear that his vision for the team was centered on strength in the trenches. The move not only bolstered the Bears’ offensive line immediately but also signaled a commitment to protecting their franchise quarterback and building a more balanced, powerful offense. The decision was made in the face of a rapidly changing NFL landscape, where teams are increasingly looking for every edge they can get, especially in the offensive trenches.

Addressing a Longstanding Weakness

For years, the Bears’ offensive line had been a weak link on the team, preventing the offense from consistently moving the ball. Chicago’s inability to establish a solid running game or provide adequate protection for their quarterbacks has been one of the main reasons for the team’s struggles. The offensive line was often cited as the Achilles’ heel, and for good reason. Quarterbacks were under pressure far too often, leading to high sack rates and hurried throws. The Bears also found it difficult to create running lanes for their backs, limiting their offensive playbook and preventing them from sustaining drives.

When Poles arrived, he knew that the offensive line was one of the most pressing areas to address. The franchise had already seen the high price of poor offensive line play—quarterback Justin Fields, a dynamic and highly touted young talent, was often forced to make plays under duress due to lackluster protection. The need for an upgrade along the offensive line was glaring, and Poles was determined to address it head-on.

As a former offensive lineman and a longtime scout with the Kansas City Chiefs, Poles understood that building a dominant offensive line could be the key to unlocking a team’s potential. Offensive line play affects everything: the running game, the passing game, and the ability to stay competitive throughout the season. With this in mind, Poles began to analyze the upcoming free agency period, knowing that the window for improvement was narrow.

When the opportunity arose to add not one, but two Pro Bowl guards—players who had already established themselves as some of the best in the league—Poles didn’t hesitate. The timing was perfect. The Bears had the cap space and flexibility to make a splash, and Poles knew that adding elite talent to the interior of the offensive line would immediately help the team’s overall performance.

Why Pro Bowl Guards?

When analyzing the needs of an NFL team, the focus is often on the marquee positions: quarterback, wide receiver, defensive end, and cornerback. While these positions are crucial, the offensive line is the backbone of a successful offense, and securing talent in this area cannot be overlooked. Pro Bowl guards bring a level of consistency, skill, and experience that is invaluable to any offense.

Adding Pro Bowl-caliber players at guard provides immediate dividends. Guards play a pivotal role in both the passing and running game. In pass protection, guards are tasked with protecting the quarterback from interior pressure, one of the quickest ways to disrupt a passing play. In the running game, guards are responsible for creating space in the middle of the field, where many of the most effective running plays are designed. A Pro Bowl guard is adept at both, and their presence can elevate the entire offensive line. By adding two such players, Poles immediately improved the Bears’ ability to protect Fields and open up holes for the running backs.

Moreover, the acquisition of these two players gave the Bears a level of stability they had sorely lacked in recent years. The interior of the offensive line is often the most difficult to build through the draft, as it requires a combination of size, strength, and intelligence. These Pro Bowl guards had already proven their worth in the league, so Poles didn’t need to take any risks. He added proven players who were ready to step into the starting lineup and make an immediate impact.

The Impact on Justin Fields

The signing of these two Pro Bowl guards was not just a victory for the Bears’ offensive line—it was also a direct boon to the team’s young quarterback, Justin Fields. Fields, who had shown flashes of brilliance in his first few seasons, was often running for his life behind a porous offensive line. The addition of top-tier guards gives Fields the protection he needs to progress as a quarterback.

With the new guards in place, Fields no longer has to worry about interior pressure collapsing the pocket. This improvement could help him feel more comfortable in the pocket and, in turn, help him make better decisions. The offensive line upgrade also provides more time for Fields to survey the field and make reads, something that is crucial for his development as a passer.

Additionally, the presence of strong guards creates running lanes for Fields, whose ability to run with the football is one of his greatest strengths. Having a reliable offensive line allows Fields to have more options, whether it’s stepping up in the pocket to make a throw or taking off for a run. The Pro Bowl guards will undoubtedly help open up the running game, making it easier for Fields to be the dual-threat quarterback the Bears hope he will become.

The Importance of Timing

The timing of Poles’ decision to add two Pro Bowl guards is another critical factor in the success of this move. Free agency is always unpredictable, and teams that can act quickly and decisively often have the upper hand. By jumping on these two guards before the official start of the free agency window, Poles capitalized on an opportunity to secure top-tier talent before other teams had the chance to make their moves.

The decision also sent a message to the rest of the league that the Bears were serious about their long-term plans. By prioritizing the offensive line, Poles made it clear that the team was committed to building a competitive and sustainable roster. The acquisition of these two Pro Bowl players demonstrates a long-term vision for the Bears, one that values not just short-term success but also long-term stability and growth.

The Bigger Picture

The addition of two Pro Bowl guards is just one piece of the puzzle for the Chicago Bears. However, it is a significant piece. By solidifying the offensive line, Poles has set the stage for the team’s offense to flourish. The Bears now have a solid foundation to build on, with a revamped offensive line, a young quarterback with immense potential, and a coaching staff that is eager to develop and refine this talent.

The signing also represents a shift in the way the Bears approach roster building. No longer are they content with patching up weaknesses or relying on underperforming players. Poles is taking a proactive approach, identifying areas of need and aggressively pursuing solutions. This commitment to excellence is what will ultimately make the Bears a more formidable team in the coming years.

Ryan Poles’ decision to add two Pro Bowl guards before the start of the free agency window was a decisive and forward-thinking move that sets the stage for the Chicago Bears to build a more competitive and balanced team. By shoring up the offensive line, Poles not only addressed a longstanding weakness but also gave the Bears a much-needed advantage in protecting their young quarterback, Justin Fields. This move signals a new era for the Bears—one in which the team is focused on strength, stability, and building from the inside out.

As the NFL continues to evolve, having a dominant offensive line will always be a key factor in achieving long-term success. Ryan Poles recognized this and made a bold, calculated move to give the Bears a fighting chance in the NFC North and beyond. With the addition of these two Pro Bowl guards, the Bears are positioned to take a significant step forward, and the future looks brighter than ever.