With the NFL draft being only a few weeks away, it’s time to start looking at what the Chicago Bears need to do to improve their roster. 

Last season left Bears fans questioning what their future holds, with detrimental struggles offensively and a deflated defense. Due to not having much salary cap space, the best option for the Bears to improve will be through the draft.

Let’s start with the most important position on the football field, the quarterback. After the signing of Nick Foles last offseason, it was clear to everyone watching that he was not the long term solution. Then the departure of Mitch Trubisky and failure to complete a trade for Russell Wilson led to the Bears signing Andy Dalton. 

Though Dalton does have some experience, he is not the future quarterback this team needs to get them to the next level. The Bears hold the 20th overall pick in the first round of the draft. Some quarterbacks who might be available are Justin Fields, Trey Lance, Kyle Trask and Ian Book. Since Dalton was already named the starter, if a quarterback is drafted, their opportunity would come later down the road. 

Sam Stevenson, a Bears analyst writes in his mock trade article, “While getting rid of more players seems counterproductive, the team is not in a good position financially.” Stevenson mentions Akiem Hicks, Anthony Miller and Nick Foles as potential trading pieces. The Bears would likely receive draft picks in return for those players. 

Other areas of concern are wide receivers and offensive line. I expect the Bears to sure up these positions in the middle to late rounds of the draft. With Allen Robinson franchised tagged and Anthony Miller about to be traded, it’s important to bring in weapons that will be around for the future. 

I suspect that with the last few picks in the draft the Bears will draft defense, to try to bring in youth with some of the older players on the way out. Linebacker, cornerback, safety and defensive line are the positions where the Bears need to bring in youth. 

This year’s draft is going to be key to determine the future of the Bears. The defensive unit only has a few years left together, so a quick turnaround has to happen for the Bears if they want any chance at competing for a Super Bowl.