LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Chicago Bears have extended general manager Ryan Poles’ contract for three more years, keeping him with the team until 2029. This new deal aligns him with head coach Ben Johnson, who also has a contract through the same year.
Poles, 39, has been reshaping the Bears since he joined in 2022. His efforts led to significant changes, including securing the No. 1 pick in the 2022 and 2023 drafts. In 2023, the Bears traded that top pick to the Carolina Panthers. This move brought in wide receiver DJ Moore and four additional draft picks, which Poles used to bolster the team with key players like quarterback Caleb Williams and others.
Despite the changes, the Bears have had a rough start, posting a 15-36 record during Poles’ time as GM. The team fired former coach Matt Eberflus in the middle of the 2024 season after a tough 5-12 finish, culminating in Williams’ rookie year.
Poles emphasized a comprehensive approach to rebuilding the team. He interviewed 17 candidates before choosing Johnson as coach. Since then, they have focused on strengthening the offensive line and defense. They brought in guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, and signed center Drew Dalman. Additionally, defensive improvements included tackles Grady Jarrett and Shemar Turner.
In a notable first for the team, their first draft together included tight end Colston Loveland and receiver Luther Burden III as their top picks. This was a significant moment in franchise history.
Johnson praised Poles for his consistent leadership, saying, “There’s a rhythm to all the madness behind what we do. Ryan really is all the brains behind that. It’s running smoothly.” His approach is rooted in long-term planning, execution, and building relationships within the team.
As we look at sports management today, consistency and smart decision-making are crucial. A recent study showed that organizations with stable leadership tend to perform better over time. By investing in player development and maintaining steady coaching, Poles and Johnson are hoping to shift the Bears’ trajectory.
With fans eager for improvement, the pressure to see results is mounting. Social media is buzzing with mixed feelings—while some trust the process, others are anxious about the team’s future.
The Bears are aiming to build a stronger, more competitive squad. Time will tell if these changes pay off.
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