NFL mock drafts are thought exercises over most anything else. There are different paths through all seven rounds, with teams finding ways to address needs and add value with virtually no control on the players taken before their draft slot.

They’re fun to do, even though the actual draft never plays out the way you predict.

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We’ve tried to mix and match a bit on these Chicago Bears seven-round mock drafts, with the team going offensive tackle and then edge rusher in the last two iterations.

For the final version, we’re going the way I believe it actually will happen. This group of picks addresses important needs but also poses a real value proposition for an organization that’s riding a wave of offseason positivity.

Again, shout out to Dane Brugler’s “The Beast” for some great insights.

Let’s dive into the third and final version of our Bears seven-round mock draft (no trades, obviously) and how these prospects could help the team in 2025 and beyond.

Round 1 (No. 10 overall):
TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

Taking a tight end this high doesn’t always work out, and it isn’t considered a true premium position. But let’s go back to what Ben Johnson said about Jahmyr Gibbs — that the Detroit Lions viewed the running back as an “offensive weapon.” Warren certainly is that, with versatility to move around an offensive formation. The Nittany Lions used him in-line, in the slot, out wide and even in the backfield.

Warren’s talent would be smartly paired with Johnson’s innovative offensive mind. He was a high school quarterback, too, so Johnson could take advantage of that by passing or running from the Wildcat. Warren is a tough player who’s also elusive, finding ways to earn important yards after the catch. He also loves to block — an important trait for Johnson.

The Bears did enough last month to feel comfortable going for a rare talent who isn’t necessarily at a position of need. It doesn’t eliminate veteran Cole Kmet‘s value, either, with Johnson historically finding ways to involve multiple tight ends in his attack.

Round 2 (No. 39 overall):
OT Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon

I went with Conerly a bit later in my previous seven-round mock, but I panicked and didn’t wait to take him at No. 41. It’s entirely possible he won’t make it to No. 39, either, but the Bears should be thrilled if he does.

Conerly is a true left tackle, which fits what the Bears need over some others, with good size, athleticism and arm length. He’s aggressive and super strong, though he’s not without improvement areas.

The Bears could have Conerly as a swing tackle as a rookie and a starter after that, or maybe he’d compete hard in 2025 and win the job.

Round 2 (No. 41 overall):
EDGE Landon Jackson, Arkansas

Jackson has ideal size and strength for a Dennis Allen defense, as someone who could help create a deep Bears defensive front. Analysts say Jackson is an aggressive player off the edge and is decent at stopping the run and generating quarterback pressure.

Jackson could be a solid addition in sub packages while helping the defense attack in waves. That’s what the Bears need after years of being too reliant on Montez Sweat. Adding Jackson to offseason signees Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett definitely would help their efforts up front.

Round 3 (No. 72 overall):
RB Dylan Sampson, Tennessee

The Bears might desire a bigger, more physical back, but I couldn’t find a way to take Cam Skattebo in this spot. I do believe Sampson can help the rushing effort overall, though, taking hits away from D’Andre Swift while providing some big-play ability.

Analysts say Sampson is a strong leader, will fight for tougher yards and find ways to reach the second level. The Bears need all of those things in their run game.

Sampson doesn’t solve the Bears’ inside rushing problems, but Roschon Johnson still is around to handle those duties. Adding Sampson also could allow the Bears to take Swift’s big salary off the books next season.

Round 5 (No. 148 overall):
LB Jack Kiser, Notre Dame

Kiser was on a previous mock draft as well, but we love finding team captains, smart players and strong leaders on Day 3. They end up being quality locker-room guys and positive core special-teams contributors.

Kiser would provide injury protection and sure tackling as a reserve behind T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds. There’s nothing wrong with acquiring that in the fifth round.

Round 7 (No. 233 overall):
DB Rayuan Lane III, Navy

Lane might not solve the Bears’ long-term problems at safety, but adding a smart, versatile defensive back with service-academy discipline should help with depth and on special teams. He’s an instinctive player, analysts say, and could assist on defense in time or become a core special-teamer.

Round 7 (No. 240 overall):
DT Desmond Watson, Florida

I was looking for a massive human at defensive tackle. Found him.

Watson is 464 pounds — yep, you read that right — and obviously a run stopper. At this point in the draft, why not take a flier? Maybe it will work out, maybe it won’t with a player who has massive size. With the 240^th pick, you might as well.