ESPN Analyst Mike Tannenbaum’s 2025 NFL Mock Draft Has Bears Landing Defensive Standout
ESPN analyst and former New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum released his latest 2025 NFL mock draft this week, offering a unique perspective on the first round. Instead of predicting what teams are likely to do, Tannenbaum approached the draft as if he were a general manager, making selections based on his own strategy.
For the Chicago Bears, currently holding the 10th overall pick, Tannenbaum’s pick was a major win—selecting Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham.
“Penn State’s Tyler Warren could strengthen the tight end room, and Ohio State tackle Josh Simmons would further reinforce Chicago’s offensive line,” Tannenbaum wrote. “But Graham is still available, and the Bears would love to add a dominant pass-rushing defensive tackle—even after signing Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo. Graham’s physical traits, technique, and wrestling background give him excellent balance and leverage, which contributed to his 3.5 sacks and 26 pressures last season at Michigan.”
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Graham remains a realistic option for the Bears at No. 10. Each year, highly touted prospects slip in the draft due to minor concerns at the NFL Combine, and Graham could follow that trend—potentially becoming a steal for Chicago.
If selected, Graham would join an already improved defensive tackle group featuring Grady Jarrett, Gervon Dexter, Andrew Billings, and Dayo Odeyingbo. While Chicago still has pressing needs at edge rusher, Graham would be the best player available at this stage in the draft.
Although Tannenbaum’s takes have been met with criticism in the past, this Bears pick looks like a strong move.
