The 2025 NFL Draft strategy of the Chicago Bears has left both fans and analysts perplexed, particularly regarding the running back position.
Despite notable attempts to trade up for Ohio State’s Treveyon Henderson, general manager Ryan Poles ultimately opted for Rutgers’ Kyle Menengai in the seventh round.
Although Menagai possesses potential, his selection did not meet the expectations of a fan base yearning for a transformative rusher.
With limited options available in free agency at this point, the Bears must explore a more unconventional approach: the trade market. How the Bears Can Still Acquire a Running Back without Free Agent, innovative roster management, and meticulous salary cap planning.
Trade Options: Leveraging Current Roster Assets
Despite the Bears’ inability to obtain a premier rookie running back, they retain several tradeable assets that could enable them to acquire a proven or high-potential player in that position.
The Bears’ strategy for acquiring a running back without relying on free agency may necessitate significant maneuvers involving their existing roster. Below are the most promising trade candidates currently available.
Braxton Jones (Offensive Tackle)
Despite the Bears‘ inability to obtain a premier rookie running back, they retain several tradeable assets that could enable them to acquire a proven or high-potential player in that position.
The Bears’ strategy for acquiring a running back without relying on free agency may necessitate significant maneuvers involving their existing roster. Below are the most promising trade candidates currently available.
D.J. Moore (Wide Receiver)
D.J. Moore has emerged as the most reliable and dynamic asset within the Bears’ offensive lineup. With a contract extending through 2029 at a favorable rate for the team, he stands out as one of the most valuable wide receivers in the league from a salary cap perspective.
A trade executed after June 1 could potentially release $20.9 million in cap space, positioning Moore as a highly sought-after player for any team in search of a top-tier wide receiver.
Cole Kmet (Tight End)
Kmet has steadily evolved into a dependable and effective tight end, achieving consecutive seasons with more than 70 receptions.
Nevertheless, his $10 million salary for 2025 may be challenging to defend in light of Gerald Everett’s rise and the Bears’ overall tight-end depth. Executing a post-June 1 trade could free up $10 million in cap space for Chicago.
Rome Odunze (Wide Receiver)
Odunze, selected as a top 10 pick by the Bears in 2024, has demonstrated moments of exceptional skill and is anticipated to be a key player in offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s strategy. The idea of trading him at this juncture is almost inconceivable, as the Bears see him as a foundational element of their offensive future…
D’Andre Swift (Running Back)
Ironically, one of the most valuable assets of the team is simultaneously contributing to their existing challenges. Swift, who was brought on board in 2024, has a cap hit of $9.3 million and did not meet expectations last season, managing an average of only 3.8 yards per carry. While trading Swift would free up $8 million in salary cap space, it would also result in a significantly weakened backfield.
Post-Draft Trade Market Dynamics
How the Bears Can Still Acquire a Running Back without a Free Agent. The strategy involves capitalizing on the changing dynamics of the trade market. The Bears have previously shown interest in players such as Kenneth Walker III from the Seattle Seahawks and Breece Hall from the New York Jets, although their actual availability remains uncertain. A more feasible approach may involve targeting teams that have an excess of running backs or those that are likely to encounter challenging salary cap or roster decisions.
How the Bears Can Still Acquire a Running Back: Understanding the trade
At present, the Bears’ running back lineup includes D’Andre Swift, Roschen Johnson, and rookie Kyle Menagai. This combination does not feature a definitive lead back, particularly due to Swift’s erratic performance and Johnson’s relative inexperience.
Acquiring a dynamic running back via trade would enhance offensive flexibility, allowing Caleb Williams to operate within a balanced offensive strategy that keeps opposing defenses on their toes.
How the Bears Can Still Acquire a Running Back without Free Agent also makes sense in the context of long-term roster building. By investing trade capital now, they can avoid overpaying for declining talent next offseason.
Expert Editorial Comment
In order for Ryan Poles to successfully transform the Bears into playoff contenders, it is imperative that he addresses the significant deficiency at the running back position prior to the commencement of the season.
Currently, free agency does not present viable solutions, thereby necessitating a focus on the trade market.
The Bears have several avenues to secure a high-impact running back without resorting to free agency, whether that involves trading Braxton Jones, considering a deal for Cole Kmet, or targeting teams with salary cap constraints that possess excess talent.
How the Bears Can Still Acquire a Running Back without a Free Agent is not only feasible but may also represent the most pragmatic approach as training camp approaches. The responsibility now lies with Poles, and time is of the essence.