Any evaluation of Ryan Poles’ first two years as Chicago Bears general manager must be labeled as incomplete.
As Poles stated at the Bears end-of-season press conference earlier this month, his reconstruction of the Bears, who ended last season with a 7-10 record, is still a work in progress. Some of the team’s young players are still developing. Poles still needs to fill some roster gaps and build depth. He also has significant decisions to make that will impact the direction of the franchise.
The most crucial decision, of course, is whether Poles will choose a quarterback with the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL draft, stick with three-year starter Justin Fields at the position, or do both.
As Poles navigates through such decisions in a crucial third offseason, here’s an overview of 10 of the most significant decisions he has made since joining the Bears exactly two years ago on Thursday.
1. The trade involving the 2023 No. 1 draft pick.
When Poles swapped the No. 1 draft pick with the Carolina Panthers last March, and expressed immense excitement in acquiring not only first-round picks in 2023 and 2024 and second-round picks in 2023 and 2025 but also wide receiver DJ Moore.
Poles must be feeling even more ecstatic now given the outcome of the trade, particularly obtaining the No. 1 pick this year due to the Panthers’ 2-15 finish.
Moore’s 1,364 receiving yards on 96 catches in 2023 ranked fourth all time among Bears single-season leaders. Additionally, rookie right tackle Darnell Wright and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, acquired from the 2023 draft picks, had promising rookie seasons. (The Bears selected Stevenson with the help of a second trade.)
However, one potential criticism of the trade is that Poles opted to give Fields at least another year as the Bears' starter rather than selecting a quarterback prospect such as C.J. Stroud, who was chosen at No. 2.
Considering Stroud’s success in aiding the Houston Texans to the divisional round of the playoffs as a rookie, Poles was asked this month if he felt that his team had misjudged the situation.
“You have to consider what’s best for your team,” Poles stated. “So, when you examine that situation and how it unfolded, having DJ, Darnell, Stevenson, the first overall (pick), and the second-round pick next year, I believe that’s the best for our organization.”
Now, Poles has the opportunity to further enhance the trade’s outcome depending on his actions with the 2024 No. 1 selection — setting the stage for what could be a crucial moment in team history on April 25.
2. Appointing Matt Eberflus — and keeping him on board.
Two days after the Bears appointed Poles as GM on Jan. 25, 2022, he chose Eberflus as his head coach from a group of finalists that included Dan Quinn and Jim Caldwell.
Poles mentioned at the introductory press conference that he was so sure of Eberflus, a long-time defensive coach and coordinator but first-time head coach, that “the moment he entered the room, I knew he was the guy, especially when he began outlining his plan.”
Poles has continued to offer support for Eberflus despite the coach’s 10-24 record, including 2-10 in the NFC North, over two seasons. Poles reaffirmed this month that Eberflus would return for a third season. Poles mentioned Eberflus’ leadership and stability during a turbulent season, which included a 2-7 start, the abrupt exit of defensive coordinator Alan Williams, and frequent quarterback speculation, as reasons for retaining the coach in 2024.
Poles said that during tough times, Eberflus was able to keep the team together, which Poles believes is crucial, especially in a big market like this. He emphasized the importance of stability and Eberflus' attention to detail in coaching. Poles also noted the progress made and attributed the increase in wins to Eberflus, stating that without him, the team would likely fall apart.
Poles and Eberflus have been open to parting ways with other coaches. The Bears fired running backs coach David Walker midseason due to not meeting team conduct standards, as stated by Poles. Additionally, they fired offensive coordinator Luke Getsy and four other assistants this month.
However, Poles tied the Bears’ future success to Eberflus, whose defense showed improvement by the end of the season.
Choosing consistency over potentially hiring top offensive coaching candidates who are eyeing a head coaching role rather than an OC, Poles seemed committed to the decision to retain Eberflus. Eberflus brought in new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, the former Seattle Seahawks OC and play caller, to lead the Bears' next year's quarterback, whoever that may be.
3. Trading for defensive end Montez Sweat.
On locker clean-out day at Halas Hall, Sweat mentioned it was a notable achievement to be the first player in NFL history to lead two teams in sacks in one season. After Poles acquired him for a 2024 second-round draft pick, Sweat had 6 1/2 sacks with the Washington Commanders and then six with the Bears.
Sweat stated that although it was a notable achievement, he feels he could have performed even better. He plans to review his performance during the offseason and return ready to improve.
Sweat quickly became a significant contributor to the late-season defensive improvement with the Bears. He accumulated 14 quarterback hits and 21 pressures, according to Pro Football Reference, and became what Poles described as “a multiplier.”
According to Poles, Sweat had a positive impact on the entire defense. Poles noted that adding players like Sweat increased the team's confidence, leading to more interceptions and victories. Poles referred to it as “The 'Tez Effect.'” He also praised Sweat as a great human being.
Poles took a gamble by acquiring Sweat before finalizing a contract extension. However, the Bears signed Sweat to a four-year, $98 million contract four days after the trade, and although it's early, the initial results are positive, though Sweat still has work to do to justify the contract.
4. The team traded away Khalil Mack, a player known for pressuring opposing quarterbacks from the edge of the defense.
Poles made an impactful start to his time with the Bears by trading the team’s top player.
Poles’ deal in which Mack was sent to the Los Angeles Chargers In March 2022, the trade of Mack marked the beginning of a rebuilding phase for the Bears. This move brought the team valuable draft picks, which were used to select safety Jaquan Brisker in the second round, safety Elijah Hicks and punter Trenton Gill in the seventh round. It also freed up some salary cap space.
Poles acknowledged that some people might be upset about the trade. He emphasized that while it wasn’t an easy decision, it was part of his responsibility to make choices that benefit the organization in both the present and the future.
Certainly, the Bears could still benefit from having a player like Mack, who, at 32 years old, achieved career-high statistics and received Pro Bowl honors twice during his time with the Chargers.
5. Choosing to draft right tackle Darnell Wright instead of defensive tackle Jalen Carter.
Many analysts considered Carter to be the most skilled defensive player in the 2023 draft, despite experiencing turbulence leading up to the event.
Carter faced challenges during the NFL scouting combine and was involved in a car accident that resulted in the death of a teammate and a staff member. He also had legal issues related to reckless driving and racing. Amidst this turmoil, Carter struggled during his pro day workout in Georgia.
When the opportunity arose for Poles to select Carter at the 9th spot in April, he instead traded back one spot, allowing the Philadelphia Eagles to take Carter and gaining a 2024 fourth-round pick for the Bears. They then used the 10th pick to select Wright. Carter and Wright both earned spots on the Pro Football Writers of America's all-rookie team this week. Carter demonstrated his skills with six sacks, nine quarterback hits, eight tackles for a loss, two forced fumbles, and a fumble return touchdown for the Eagles. Meanwhile, Wright started all 17 games for the Bears as right tackle..
This month, Poles expressed strong confidence in the decision and praised Wright’s potential.
“Darnell performed admirably,” stated Poles. “He is continuing to refine his technique. Once he addresses the technique discrepancy and consistently applies the right techniques against different opponents… There's a lot to learn in terms of the pass rushers you face, as they all have diverse techniques. Once he masters this, he will become an exceptional player.
“Right now, as a rookie, he's relying on his natural talent. It served him well in many games, but there were instances where it fell short, and he must continue improving. I am confident that he will dedicate the necessary time and effort. He possesses the right attributes, toughness, and strength.
6. Trading linebacker Roquan Smith and defensive end Robert Quinn.
Since Poles traded Smith to the Baltimore Ravens along with defensive end Robert Quinn for second- and fifth-round draft picks, Smith has earned All-Pro honors twice and contributed to the Ravens' advancement to the AFC championship game this season.
Poles mentioned during the November 2022 trade that he and Smith could not agree on a contract extension. The Ravens awarded Smith a $100 million contract for five years. Poles expressed doubt about finding a compromise, and he felt it was unlikely. He believed it was necessary to move forward and improve the roster rather than risk Smith walking away without benefiting the team. Poles transformed the draft picks from the trade into defensive tackle Gervon Dexter and linebacker Noah Sewell. Poles spoke positively this month about Dexter’s progress in his first year. People may wonder why the Bears couldn't come to terms with Smith.
The trade of Quinn to the Eagles has not raised as many questions, despite Quinn's impressive performance with the Bears in 2021. Quinn did not play this season after facing legal issues in August in South Carolina. The Bears used the fourth-round pick to select wide receiver Tyler Scott, who had a somewhat challenging rookie season.
7. The decision to sign linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards.
On the other hand, the Smith trade has an alternative perspective for the Bears
as they added two linebackers
in the offseason who improved as the season progressed and became important team leaders.
The Bears gave Edmunds a $72 million contract for four years and Edwards a $19.5 million contract for three years, which now seems like a great deal considering their performance in 2023. Both players demonstrated the kind of productivity the Bears expected from Smith. Edmunds received the Bears Ballhawk Award for 2023 after making four interceptions, including a pick-six, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Edwards contributed with three interceptions, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. “You can see how competitive they are since their arrival,” linebackers coach Dave Borgonzi remarked last month. “Their love and passion for the game has been consistent throughout the season, and it has had a positive impact on the team, not only on the field but also in their influence on other players.”
8. The decision to give tight end Cole Kmet a contract extension.
In July, Poles secured his first extension for a player the Bears drafted when Kmet
signed a $50 million deal for four years
. Kmet expressed his determination to prove the Bears right, and he had his most successful season yet, recording 73 catches for 719 yards and six touchdowns.
“We’ve witnessed Cole's continuous improvement since he joined us,” Poles commented after the extension. “He embodies the qualities we value in a Bear: hard work, dedication, and professionalism in the locker room.” Kmet’s extension, however, was between two unsuccessful negotiations for the Bears, the previously mentioned talks with Smith and discussions with cornerback Jaylon Johnson. The talks with Johnson broke down at the 2023 trade deadline, leading to Johnson requesting a trade that did not happen. However, Poles stated last month that he is optimistic about reaching an agreement with the cornerback during the offseason.9. Drafting cornerbacks with three second-round picks.
One of the main focuses of Poles’ first two offseasons has been rebuilding the Bears secondary.
In 2022, Poles chose cornerback Kyler Gordon and Brisker with second-round picks, then selected Stevenson in 2023 with another second-round pick. He also added cornerback Terell Smith in the fifth round last spring.
As a result, there is now a promising young group with more experienced players like Johnson and safety Eddie Jackson.
At the safety position, there is Eddie Jackson.
Both Johnson and Eddie Jackson's futures are uncertain as Poles has decisions to make about them this offseason.
Gordon made significant progress in his second season, and Brisker continued to develop. Meanwhile, Stevenson and Smith showed potential despite facing challenges, which has raised the Bears' excitement about the group under cornerbacks coach Jon Hoke. If Johnson returns and the players stay healthy, the secondary could be a strength in 2024.Poles credited the players for their hard work and dedication in improving their skills, mentioning that they continue to work on ball skills, footwork, and the nuances of the position even after practice, which has paid off for them.
However, focusing on building the secondary has resulted in a lack of depth in other positions, notably on the offensive line and at wide receiver, which the Bears still need help with.
10. Acquiring and later trading away Chase Claypool.
Poles shared an interesting detail while expressing gratitude to Chairman George McCaskey and President and CEO Kevin Warren.
He revealed that he reflects on trades that didn't go well, discussing them in a decision log to understand how he can improve.
During a meeting, McCaskey and Warren showed their support for Poles by encouraging him to continue making decisions that feel right for the team.
Poles did not confirm if the trade he regretted was the acquisition of Claypool in November 2022, but it was one of the biggest mistakes of his tenure so far. He traded a second-round pick for Claypool, who underperformed during his time with the Bears before being benched in October for on-field and off-field issues. Eventually, the team traded him to the Miami Dolphins for a 2025 sixth-round pick.
The November 2022 acquisition of Claypool was particularly problematic.
The team's decision to acquire Claypool and then trade him away was among the biggest errors made by Poles during his short tenure.
Claypool was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins for a 2025 sixth-round pick. Following the departure of Claypool, Poles continued to make bold moves and, twenty-five days later, acquired Sweat. This acquisition contributed to the Bears' defensive turnaround, ultimately supporting a case for Eberflus to keep his job. Poles, however, remained proactive, making another significant series of decisions in 2024. Looking ahead, there are more important decisions to be made in 2024. Any evaluation of Ryan Poles’ first two years as the Chicago Bears general manager must be marked as incomplete. The most crucial decision ahead is whether Poles will select a quarterback with the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL draft, stick with three-year starter Justin Fields, or pursue both options. When Poles traded the No. 1 draft pick to the…
Poles, however, continued to shoot his shot. Twenty-five days after parting with Claypool, Poles acquired Sweat, and the Bears defense began its turnaround, which in turn helped make a case for Eberflus to retain his job.
Another web of decisions lies ahead in 2024.
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