Here Are The Best Undrafted Free Agents Ryan Poles And The Bears Must Snag
The draft is over, but the work is not. The Chicago Bears still have several roster spots left open, meaning they are likely to be aggressive in undrafted free agency. General manager Ryan Poles typically drafts around 10 players each year. That number is expected to spike as they try to address their depth. This will be a fun test for him and head coach Ben Johnson to see how much better their recruiting pitch has gotten. The Bears have plenty of spots that will see lots of competition this summer. It’s all about finding the right guys.
There is no shortage of intriguing names they can and should get the jump on. Many of them are at positions of need for this team. Here is a rundown of the ones to watch for as the phones start ringing.
Ryan Poles can score big if he moves quickly.
Nadame Tucker, EDGE, Western Michigan
Dennis Allen is strict about his preferences with edge rushers, but sometimes you should at least consider an exception. Thought only 6’1″, Tucker exploded in 2025 after three years as a backup with 14.5 sacks and 20 tackles for a loss. He didn’t do this in the FCS or Division II. He did it in the MAC Conference. His natural instincts for rushing the passer are off the charts. There has to be a use for someone like that.
Al-Jay Henderson, RB, Buffalo
While Ben Johnson might love speed above all else, he will make compromises at the running back position. If you have great vision, instincts, and toughness, you’ll have a home in this offense. Henderson checks those boxes. He runs hard and understands how to find holes. Speed isn’t his thing, nor is catching the ball. However, he’s a strong pass protector, and that will sell with this team.
Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
A big and long tackle with a determined approach to run-blocking. That isn’t a bad foundation to work with. Right now, World’s issues are technical. He has a lot of fundamental problems in pass protection. It will take some time to correct under the right coaching. That said, he has the development upside to become a reliable swing tackle who could start one day.
Bishop Fitzgerald, S, USC
Ryan Poles revamped the safety room with Coby Bryant and Dillon Thieneman, but depth remains a concern. Fitzgerald was an outstanding ballhawk for the Trojans in college. The problem was he’s undersized at 5’11” and displayed frequent issues defending the run, mostly due to bad pursuit angles. That will need correcting, but there is no doubt his takeaway skills are valuable.
Deontae Lawson, LB, Alabama
Like many Crimson Tide linebackers, Lawson is a good athlete who functions well in the open field. He has range, coverage skills, and can blitz, too. His ceiling might not be as high as others, but there is no question he’d be a great fit in Allen’s system as a potential Will linebacker. For a team that likes mixing athleticism with instincts, this is the type of guy they go for.
J. Michael Sturdivant, WR, Florida
Like Zavion Thomas, Sturdivant didn’t produce a ton in college. However, he has loads of physical traits that can translate to the NFL. He has good size and above-average speed. He’ll give effort after the catch and isn’t afraid to run-block. The primary issue is a typical one with young players. He needs refining. More discipline is required before he starts realizing his potential.