Rookie cornerback Zah Frazier, selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft by the Chicago Bears, brings a wealth of experience from his unconventional journey through college football. Frazier, who previously played for Southern Illinois and Coffeyville Community College before transferring to UTSA, embraces his adaptability in various environments.

Joining a Bears secondary already featuring Pro Bowler Jaylon Johnson and promising talent like Kyler Gordon and Tyrique Stevenson, Frazier faces the challenge of earning playing time as a late-round pick. His unique background and determination may prove essential as he navigates the competition for a starting role or contributions on special teams in his rookie season.

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, marking Ryan Poles' fourth draft as general manager. As they prepare, an assessment of the 2022 draft class reveals a mix of successes and failures. Cornerback Kyler Gordon, selected 39th overall, has emerged as a key player in the secondary with a solid B+ grade. Jaquan Brisker, while showing promise, has battled injuries and receives a B-. Velus Jones, however, is viewed as a major misstep with a D- grade, having underperformed after being drafted in the third round. Offensive lineman Braxton Jones, picked in the fifth round, earns a B+, showing potential despite injury concerns. Other picks like Dominique Robinson and Zachary Thomas failed to make a significant impact, raising questions about Poles' draft strategy.

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles has made it clear that extending Joe Thuney's contract is a priority as the team navigates the offseason. After rewarding players like Kyler Gordon and T.J. Edwards with contract extensions, Thuney, acquired from the Kansas City Chiefs, is next on Poles' agenda. The four-time Super Bowl winner and two-time All-Pro guard is entering the final year of his deal, and the Bears' investment in him, indicated by the trade of a 2026 fourth-round pick, reflects their intent to secure his services long-term.

Thuney has consistently ranked as one of the top guards in the NFL, boasting the highest pass-blocking grade among his peers since 2021. With the Bears reworking their offensive line by adding fellow guards Jonah Jackson and center Drew Dalman, a two-year extension for Thuney seems likely, ensuring he remains aligned with his new teammates.

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, armed with four top-75 picks including the 10th overall. New head coach Ben Johnson is focusing on strengthening the offensive and defensive lines, having made key acquisitions in free agency while extending contracts for critical defensive players like cornerback Kyler Gordon and linebacker T.J. Edwards. The projected 53-man roster is taking shape, with Caleb Williams leading the quarterback room, supported by veteran Case Keenum and rookie Tyson Bagent.

In the backfield, D'Andre Swift is expected to take the lead role, potentially joined by another running back in the draft. The wide receiver corps features DJ Moore and rookie Rome Odunze as starters, supplemented by free agent signings like Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay. On defense, the Bears aim to bolster their pass rush with Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo at the helm, supported by a solid defensive line. The safety position is also set with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, while the rest of the roster could see shake-ups as the draft approaches.