Following the release of veteran defensive end DeMarcus Walker, which freed up $5.25 million in salary cap space, Chicago’s need for a dominant edge rusher opposite Montez Sweat has become even more pressing. While there are some options in free agency, including Super Bowl winner Josh Sweat, there are some intriguing options in the 2025 NFL draft.

In a new mock draft from The Athletic, Kevin Fishbain has Chicago targeting an area of need with Marshall edge rusher Mike Green with the 10th overall pick. This after the top two offensive tackles are off the board (LSU’s Will Campbell and Missouri’s Armand Membou).

With the top two tackles off the board, the Bears use a first-round pick on defense for the first time since 2018. They should be able to address some of the holes on the offensive line in free agency, and they can use one or both of their second-rounders to keep fortifying the group in front of QB Caleb Williams, but the pass rush is also a major need. Green was dominant at the Senior Bowl. He plays violently, a trait GM Ryan Poles and new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen should like. Recent Bears draft picks on the defensive line have had outstanding athletic traits, but not necessarily the stats to match. Now it’s time to take someone who has the production that reflects the tape. Green, who led the country with 17 sacks, would be a very good complement opposite Montez Sweat.