The Chicago Bears are gaining momentum as the frontrunners to select Boise State’sAshton Jeanty in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
The 2024 Heisman Trophy runner-up could be the newest star to join the Jonathan Owens and Simone Biles in the Windy City.
Why the bears could target Jeanty
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Bears currently hold the best odds at +130 to land Jeanty, surpassing other potential suitors such as the Las Vegas Raiders (+150) and the Dallas Cowboys (+550).
Jeanty, widely regarded as the top running back in this year’s draft class, put up an impressive 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns at Boise State last season.
His dominance has made him a near lock to be the first running back off the board, with sportsbooks setting his odds at -2500 in that category.
While running backs have become less common as first-round selections in recent years, Chicago’s recent roster moves suggest they could break that trend and make a move for Jeanty on April 24.
The Bears have already made significant upgrades to their offensive line this offseason, adding veterans Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson.
With those reinforcements in place, Chicago is in a strong position to prioritize playmakers who can maximize the revamped blocking unit.
Given that the team ranked 25th in rushing yards per game last season (102.0), adding a dynamic back like Jeanty could be the missing piece to elevate the offense.
New head coach Ben Johnson also brings a system that has valued top-tier running backs.
As Detroit’s offensive coordinator, he played a key role in the Lions selecting Jahmyr Gibbs with the 12th overall pick in 2023.
Gibbs quickly became a focal point of the offense, making it plausible that Johnson would advocate for a similar investment in Jeanty to bolster Chicago’s rushing attack.
Chicago’s competition for Ashton Jeantry
While the Bears have emerged as favorites, other teams remain in the mix.
The Raiders, at +150, are a strong contender, given their need for a workhorse running back.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys, once considered the top betting favorite, have seemingly shifted their priorities away from Jeanty, as reported by The Athletic’s Jon Machota.
Chicago currently holds the 10th overall pick, a selection typically higher than where running backs have gone in recent drafts.
However, with the Bears already securing quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze in last year’s draft, general manager Ryan Poles could be willing to defy modern trends and make a bold move for Jeanty.
Adding to the intrigue, the Bears recently re-signed veteran running back Travis Homer to a one-year deal.
While Homer has primarily been a special teams contributor, his return rounds out a backfield that includes D’Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson, and Ian Wheeler.
This depth doesn’t rule out a first-round running back selection but suggests Chicago may evaluate all options before committing to Jeanty.
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