ClutchPoints
The Chicago Bears enter the 2025 NFL season with something they haven’t had in decades: high expectations and a franchise quarterback worth rallying around. Sure, much of the attention this offseason has gone to Caleb Williams, Ben Johnson’s arrival, and the overhaul of the offensive line. However, the Bears’ roster still includes some unsung players who could significantly impact the team’s playoff push. These sleepers may not grab headlines now, but come fall, they could be among the biggest reasons Chicago finally climbs back to relevance.
As the Bears transition into what they hope is a golden era of competitive football, don’t be surprised if a few less-heralded names become indispensable by season’s end.
It was, by almost every measure, an ideal offseason for the Bears. The franchise didn’t just reset—it reloaded. Chicago made aggressive moves to stabilize its foundation, starting with a coaching overhaul. Johnson was hired as head coach, while the respected Dennis Allen came in to command the defense.
The Bears followed that up with some major investments in their offensive line. They acquired Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and Drew Dalman to give Williams a legitimate chance to operate behind solid protection. These moves allowed Chicago to approach the draft with freedom—and they capitalized. Tight end Colston Loveland, wide receiver Luther Burden III, and offensive lineman Ozzy Trapilo were all drafted with the long term in mind.
Notably, the Bears didn’t address the running back position this offseason. That’s a sign of confidence in their existing committee or perhaps a shift in offensive philosophy under Johnson. Either way, the foundation has been laid for Williams to thrive. Johnson has praised the his attentiveness, command of meetings, and ability to process on the field. That bodes well for Chicago’s future—and for a few overlooked teammates who may finally get their chance to shine.
Here we’ll try to look at the Chicago Bears veteran players whose roles will be pushed by rookies in the 2025 NFL season.
Veteran Drew Dalman may not be a household name yet, but the former Falcons center could end up being one of the most pivotal pieces in Chicago’s offensive resurgence. After Williams was sacked 68 times in his rookie year, it became clear the Bears needed an anchor in the middle of the line. Dalman is exactly that.
He immediately brings leadership, consistency, and technical excellence to the position. He earned a 78.8 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus in 2024. That was the fourth-highest among all NFL centers. Just as importantly, Dalman is capable of making the pre-snap protection calls that can help keep Williams upright.
His experience and poise are vital for a young quarterback learning to navigate NFL defenses. Unlike some flashier additions, his impact won’t always show up in the box score. If the Bears’ offense takes a major leap in 2025, though, then Dalman’s fingerprints will be all over it. Chicago gave up 94 sacks over the...
