MOBILE, Ala. – Chicago Bears General Manager Ryan Poles is conducting a critical, hands-on evaluation of top defensive talent at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, with multiple sources indicating the team’s first-round focus is squarely on revamping a struggling pass rush. The Bears, holding the 25th overall pick, are in desperate need of impact players along the defensive front after finishing 29th in pass rush win rate last season.

Poles has been intently watching the one-on-one drills between offensive and defensive linemen, a clear signal of the franchise’s offseason priority. This year’s Senior Bowl class features several powerful edge and defensive tackle prospects who perfectly align with the physical prototype sought by Head Coach Dennis Allen, making the event a pivotal scouting opportunity for the Bears’ front office.

At the forefront of Chicago’s radar is Missouri edge rusher Zion Young. Standing at 6’5” and 262 pounds with long arms, Young has been a standout in Mobile, showcasing a compelling blend of strength and pass-rush ability. Analysts note he is a classic Dennis Allen edge: powerful enough to set the edge against the run but with the athleticism to consistently pressure the quarterback.

“Zion Young is a Dennis Allen edge rusher through and through,” noted Bears draft analyst Jacob Infante. “He’s strong as hell, but get this, he can actually rush the passer.” Previously considered a mid-to-late first or early second-round prospect, a dominant Senior Bowl week could solidify Young’s status as a legitimate target for the Bears at pick 25.

Another name generating significant buzz in league circles is Clemson defensive end TJ Parker. Entering the 2024 season as a projected top-10 pick, Parker’s stock dipped slightly after a less dominant year, but his performance this week has reminded scouts of his immense potential. He has displayed great leverage, power, and long-arm techniques in drills, re-establishing himself as a likely late first-round selection.

“Great leverage plus long arm pass rush rep here from TJ Parker,” tweeted Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus, highlighting the defender’s strong start. Like Young, Parker possesses the size, length, and power that Chicago’s defensive scheme covets, making him another prime candidate should he be available when the Bears are on the clock.

Perhaps the most dramatic riser of the week has been Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter. The 6’5”, 330-pound interior force has been virtually unblockable during Senior Bowl practices, consistently driving guards and centers into the backfield. His dominant showing has sparked conversations about a potential ascent into the first round.

“Lee Hunter acting like a first-rounder in the first practice,” said veteran analyst Todd McShay. While questions remain about his ultimate ceiling as a pass rusher, Hunter projects as a day-one contributor who can anchor against the run and provide disruptive flashes, addressing another major need on Chicago’s defensive interior.

The Bears’ interest in these specific players underscores a comprehensive plan to rebuild their defensive line. While Montez Sweat is expected to return and Austin Booker is hoped to develop, the unit lacks proven depth and high-end talent opposite Sweat. The recovery timeline for DeMarcus Walker, coming off a torn Achilles, adds further uncertainty.

Beyond the defensive front, Poles and his staff are also doing due diligence on offensive linemen, a need heightened by the potential season-long absence of left tackle Aussie Trapillo. Illinois offensive tackle JC Davis is among those who have impressed during drills, indicating the Bears are preparing contingency plans across the roster.

The Senior Bowl has historically been a strong indicator of the Bears’ draft intentions under Poles, making the performances of Young, Parker, and Hunter particularly consequential. With the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis just weeks away, these players have used the Mobile stage to make a powerful first impression on a key decision-maker.

Chicago’s approach to the 2026 NFL Draft will crystallize in the coming months, but the early groundwork is being laid this week in Alabama. The Bears’ war room appears zeroed in on adding explosive, physical defenders to a unit that must improve dramatically for the team to take the next step in a competitive NFC North.

Fans and analysts will now watch closely to see if the team’s interest translates into formal meetings and private workouts ahead of the draft in Detroit. For Ryan Poles, the mission in Mobile is clear: identify the cornerstone players who can finally bring a consistent, fearsome pass rush back to the Chicago Bears.