Against the Odds: Why a Chicago Bears UDFA Is Likely to Make the 2025 Roster
Each year, the NFL Draft captures the attention of football fans with seven rounds of college talent being selected to fill team rosters. But what happens after the final pick is announced? For the undrafted free agents—those who didn’t hear their name called—an entirely different journey begins. These players often face an uphill battle to earn a place in the league, but history shows that some rise to the occasion. For the 2025 Chicago Bears, all signs point to at least one UDFA cracking the final 53-man roster.
In this article, we’ll explore why a UDFA making the Bears’ 2025 roster isn’t just possible—it’s likely. We’ll dig into positional depth, historical precedent, coaching philosophy, and the overall roster composition to understand why one of these overlooked prospects could soon become a household name in Chicago.
One of the strongest reasons to believe a UDFA could make the team is the current state of the Bears’ roster. With a blend of veteran leadership and young, unproven talent, several positions remain up for grabs. Depth at linebacker, safety, and along the interior offensive line are of particular concern.
The 2025 offseason saw Chicago fill critical needs at quarterback, wide receiver, and edge rusher, but left other units thin. At linebacker, injuries and inconsistent play have left the door wide open. The same can be said for safety, where roles behind the starters are fluid. Offensive line injuries in past seasons have also emphasized the importance of versatile backups.
For UDFAs, these vulnerabilities offer a golden opportunity. If a player can contribute on special teams and flash versatility or upside, coaches are far more willing to invest in their development.
The Bears have a recent history of turning undrafted players into contributors. Consider the case of linebacker Jack Sanborn, an undrafted free agent out of Wisconsin who not only made the team but started multiple games as a rookie and carved out a long-term role. Sanborn’s instincts, work ethic, and special teams play made him impossible to ignore.
This isn’t a fluke. Chicago has often leaned on unheralded players to step in when others falter. Running back Ryan Nall and cornerback Cre’Von LeBlanc both played key roles despite entering the league undrafted. These stories point to a front office and coaching staff that prioritizes performance over pedigree.
Head coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles have emphasized competition since they arrived in Chicago. They’ve shown a consistent willingness to let young, hungry players prove themselves.
Eberflus, in particular, values effort, football IQ, and special teams contributions—all attributes commonly found in successful UDFAs. His HITS principle (Hustle, Intensity, Takeaways, Smart plays) creates an environment where less-heralded players can shine through grit and consistency.
Special teams coach Richard Hightower also plays a pivotal role. He has shown the ability to identify and develop talent from unlikely places. For many UDFAs, excelling in special teams is the quickest way to earn a roster spot.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the positions where a UDFA might realistically stick:
- Linebacker: Beyond Tremaine Edmunds, the Bears are still searching for dependable rotational linebackers. This opens a window for a UDFA to secure a spot through strong preseason performances and special teams play.
- Safety: The top two spots are likely locked, but there’s little clarity after that. A smart, instinctual safety with special teams value could easily leapfrog into a backup role.
- Offensive Line: Injuries are a constant concern. If a UDFA shows position flexibility (e.g., guard/center), he could become a valuable depth piece.
- Cornerback: This group has talent but lacks experience. A physically gifted corner who flashes ball skills and tackling ability could surprise in camp.
- Wide Receiver: After the top three or four, the bottom of the depth chart is wide open. A UDFA with return skills or YAC ability could break through.
The UDFAs who make NFL rosters typically have a few things in common:
- Special Teams Impact: Coaches need core special teamers, and UDFAs know this is their path to relevance.
- Football IQ: With less margin for error, undrafted players must quickly learn complex playbooks and adapt to multiple roles.
- Grit and Durability: Practice reps and preseason games are grueling. UDFAs need to prove they can handle the load.
- Coachability: Willingness to learn, take criticism, and improve quickly are non-negotiable.
By focusing on these areas, UDFAs in Chicago can make themselves indispensable by late August.
Although final UDFA signings are still being confirmed, early reports suggest a few names worth watching:
- Elijah Jones, CB, Boston College: A tall, rangy corner with good instincts and solid college production. If he shows up on special teams, he’ll be in the mix.
- Tanner McLachlan, TE, Arizona: With a lean TE room beyond Cole Kmet, a strong blocker with soft hands could carve out a backup role.
- Darius Muasau, LB, UCLA: Instinctive and physical, he’s the kind of player who thrives on special teams and has a nose for the football.
- Isaiah Davis, RB, South Dakota State: With solid vision and burst, he could push for a depth role, especially if injuries strike.
- Jalan McClendon, QB, North Carolina Central: An athletic, developmental QB with leadership qualities. Could be a practice squad candidate who sticks long-term.
