What will the Bears do with the No. 25 overall pick in the NFL Draft? (Hour 2)
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The second hour of the Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show dives into the Chicago Bears' upcoming 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with hosts Marshall Harris and Grody (Rahimi) analyzing potential draft strategies. They debate whether the Bears should adhere to a 'best player available' philosophy, especially given Ryan Poles' mixed track record drafting defensive linemen and edge rushers in the 20-30 range over the past decade. After reviewing historical data showing a low hit rate for edge defenders and defensive tackles selected in that range, the hosts conclude that the safety position is the most logical and conservative choice—despite its perceived lack of glamour. They advocate for trading back to accumulate more second-round picks, arguing that multiple mid-round selections offer better odds of finding impact players than a single high pick in a volatile position. The discussion transitions to a Cubs game recap, featuring a candid interview with outfielder Ian Happ, who discusses the team’s offensive struggles, the challenges of facing elite pitchers like Aaron Nola, and the importance of patience and development. Happ remains optimistic, emphasizing that the offense will improve over time. The segment ends with a lighthearted interlude about the hosts’ German relatives visiting Chicago, fascinated by American fast food and giant retail stores like Walmart, sparking a humorous 'fast food crawl' idea.
The Bears should consider trading back from the 25th pick to accumulate more second-round selections, given the historically low hit rate for defensive linemen and edge rushers drafted in the 20-30 range.
Safety is the most logical position for the Bears to target at 25th overall, despite it being a non-premium position, due to the team’s need and the strong track record of defensive coordinator Dennis Allen with safeties.
Ryan Poles’ recent defensive line drafts (e.g., Shamar Turner, Austin Booker, Zach Pickens) have largely underperformed, reinforcing skepticism about drafting high on the defensive line in the first round.
Ian Happ remains confident in the Cubs’ offense, stating that early-season struggles with runners in scoring position are normal and will even out over the course of the season.
The team’s success hinges on developing young talent and adapting to opposing pitchers’ strategies, as exemplified by Shota Imanaga’s improved command and pitch mix.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
The Bears' Draft Philosophy and the Safety Position
“The Bears should trade back. Unless someone is there at 25 where the Bears say, I can't believe this guy fell to us, take that player regardless of position again.”
Historical Analysis of Edge and Defensive Line Drafts
A deep dive into the draft history from 2017 to 2025 reveals a low hit rate for defensive linemen and edge rushers selected between picks 20 and 30, with only a few exceptions like Montez Sweat and Devontae Wyatt.
The Case for Trading Back and Accumulating Second-Round Picks
“I like the Bears going into this draft with four second round picks or one first rounder and three second round picks than I do with the late first rounder and then the two seconds that they have.”
Cubs Game Recap and Ian Happ Interview
“The offense is too good top to bottom for it to not come. And, you know, part of that early season where all the stats are looking a little bit, you know, maybe not as good as what some guys want. That evens itself out over the course of the year.”
The Cultural Exchange: German Visitors and American Fast Food
A humorous segment about the hosts’ German relatives visiting Chicago, who were amazed by American fast food chains and massive retail stores like Walmart, leading to a lighthearted 'fast food crawl' idea.
“The Bears should trade back. Unless someone is there at 25 where the Bears say, I can't believe this guy fell to us, take that player regardless of position again.”
“The offense is too good top to bottom for it to not come. And, you know, part of that early season where all the stats are looking a little bit, you know, maybe not as good as what some guys want. That evens itself out over the course of the year.”
“It's a crapshoot, man. It is a crapshoot, and I think that's fair to say about all of the draft after you get outside, let's say, the top 10, maybe top 15 any given year.”
Hosts
Guest
Chicago Bears
other
Ian Happ
person
Ryan Poles
person
Chicago Cubs
other
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show
media
Philadelphia Phillies
other
Montez Sweat
person
Compound Podcast
media
Connect Roasters
brand
Kyle Schwarber
person
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