Anthony Herron expects Bears to draft a defensive player at No. 25 overall (Hour 4)
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In this episode of the Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show, football analyst Anthony Heron joins the hosts to break down the Chicago Bears' upcoming 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Heron argues that the Bears should prioritize defense, specifically targeting a defensive lineman or safety, over offensive tackle despite the position's need. He emphasizes that the depth of the defensive class—featuring projected players like Akeem Mesidor, Zion Young, and TJ Parker—makes it a prime opportunity for the Bears to address their weak defensive front. Heron praises the consistency and NFL-ready traits of players like Mesidor over high-upside but unproven edge rushers like Arvel Reese. He also highlights the importance of drafting players who can contribute immediately, citing Darnell Wright as the only recent Bears draft pick whose traits matched his tape. The discussion shifts to roster stability, with Heron expressing cautious optimism about Braxton Jones at left tackle and noting the value of veteran cohesion in the secondary. The hosts also engage in lighthearted banter about Cubs and Bulls trades, including a humorous bet over whether Nico Hoerner would be traded—spoiler: he won’t.
The Bears should draft a defensive player at No. 25, prioritizing immediate contributors over high-upside projects.
Akeem Mesidor is a top defensive target due to his consistent production and NFL-ready traits.
Braxton Jones is acceptable at left tackle, but the Bears should still consider upgrading if a better option is available.
The secondary has veteran depth, making it feasible to draft a rookie safety without sacrificing defensive stability.
The Bears' draft strategy should focus on cost-controlled, long-term assets, especially on defense and offensive line.
Bears' Draft Position and Defensive Priority
“If they mess around and take a tight end or something, you will flip out. I'll be here with Rami. I'm going to be across the tree at Fox 32.”
Evaluating Defensive Talent: Mesidor, Young, and Reese
“He's not going to beat Arvel Reese in the 40-yard dash, but he's going to be to me a more consistent rookie in the NFL than Arvel Reese.”
Safety Position and Rookie Development
The hosts debate the safety position, with Heron favoring Dylan Thienemann for his on-ball production and versatility over Emmanuel McNeil-Warren’s physicality. He argues that the Bears’ veteran secondary makes a rookie safety viable.
Offensive Line and Braxton Jones Evaluation
Heron discusses the Bears’ offensive line depth and expresses cautious confidence in Braxton Jones at left tackle, acknowledging his past struggles but praising his willingness to play through injury and the team’s strong play-calling support.
Roster Stability and Draft Strategy
The conversation turns to the Bears’ overall roster health and the importance of drafting cost-controlled, long-term contributors. Heron stresses that the team has fortified most positions and should use the draft to address defensive depth.
“I'm so far up on my dollar bets that it does not pay me to give you your dollar.”
“If they mess around and take a tight end or something, you will flip out. I'll be here with Rami. I'm going to be across the tree at Fox 32.”
“He's not going to beat Arvel Reese in the 40-yard dash, but he's going to be to me a more consistent rookie in the NFL than Arvel Reese.”
Hosts
Guest
Chicago Bears
other
Anthony Heron
person
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show
media
Ryan Poles
person
Marshall Harris
person
Caleb Williams
person
Braxton Jones
person
Darnell Wright
person
Cubs
other
104.3 The Score
other
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