In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Chicago Bears made an audacious attempt to trade up in the 2025 NFL Draft, targeting the New England Patriots’ coveted second-round pick at No. 38 overall. This strategic maneuver, revealed through a behind-the-scenes video in the Patriots’ “Forged in Foxborough” series, underscores the Bears’ aggressive approach to roster-building under General Manager Ryan Poles and new head coach Ben Johnson. While the trade ultimately fell through, the bold offer has sparked widespread debate about Chicago’s ambitions and the shifting dynamics of NFL draft strategies.
A Calculated Risk for a Transformative Talent
The Bears, holding the No. 39 pick, aimed to move up just one spot to secure Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson, a dynamic playmaker often compared to Detroit Lions star Jahmyr Gibbs for his explosive dual-threat capabilities as a runner and receiver. According to reports, Chicago offered their No. 39 pick and a seventh-round selection to entice the Patriots, a proposal that reflects their determination to add a game-changing running back to complement second-year quarterback Caleb Williams.
In the pilot episode of a new video series named “Forged in Foxborough” found on the New England Patriots’ YouTube channel, it was revealed that the Chicago Bears attempted to flip spots with the Patriots in the 2025 NFL Draft to go from 39 to 38 at the cost of a 7th round pick. pic.twitter.com/itpI9itgRW
— Thy&Smi Podcast (@ThyAndSmi) May 19, 2025
This move was not merely about acquiring a player but about making a statement. The Bears, coming off a 2024 season that highlighted deficiencies in their running game, recognized Henderson’s potential to elevate their offense. His ability to contribute on passing downs as a blocker and receiver made him a prime target for a team looking to build a versatile and explosive attack under Johnson’s innovative offensive scheme. However, the Patriots, aware of Henderson’s value and their own need for a running back, declined the offer and selected him at No. 38, leaving the Bears to pivot to Plan B.
The Patriots’ Perspective: Holding Firm
For the New England Patriots, the decision to reject the Bears’ offer was a strategic one. Under the leadership of General Manager Eliot Wolf and new head coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots prioritized Henderson’s immediate impact potential over the marginal draft capital offered by Chicago. The No. 38 pick was in high demand, with reports indicating that another team, possibly the Houston Texans, proposed a package including picks No. 58, No. 79, and a 2025 third-rounder, which New England also turned down.
Henderson’s selection aligns with Vrabel’s vision for a robust backfield, as evidenced by the team’s offseason moves to bolster their running back depth. With Rhamondre Stevenson’s fumbling issues a concern, Henderson’s ball security and playmaking ability position him as a potential lead back, justifying the Patriots’ decision to hold firm. This choice not only secured a cornerstone player for New England but also underscored the high stakes of draft-day negotiations.
The Bears’ Pivot and Broader Strategy
Undeterred by the failed trade, the Bears used their No. 39 pick to select Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, a high-upside pass-catcher who some considered a steal at that position despite concerns about his draft stock. Later, in the seventh round (No. 233), Chicago drafted Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai, a hard-nosed runner with pass-protection skills that align with the team’s needs. While Monangai faces a tougher path to a starting role compared to Henderson, his addition reflects Poles’ commitment to addressing the running back position through multiple avenues.
This draft approach is part of a broader transformation for the Bears, who have been aggressive in reshaping their roster. With key acquisitions like offensive linemen Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson in free agency, and the hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach, Chicago is building around Caleb Williams to create a dynamic, high-powered offense. The pursuit of Henderson highlights their willingness to take calculated risks to secure elite talent, even if it means offering significant assets in a draft known for its depth.
Implications for the NFL Landscape
The Bears’ bold trade offer is more than a footnote in the 2025 NFL Draft; it’s a reflection of a franchise unafraid to challenge the status quo. By targeting a premium position like running back in the second round, Chicago signaled its intent to accelerate its rebuild and compete at the highest level. This move has sparked discussions across the league about the value of draft picks, the cost of hesitation, and the strategic brinkmanship that defines the NFL draft.
For the Patriots, retaining the No. 38 pick reinforces their focus on building a competitive roster for the future, with Henderson as a potential cornerstone. Meanwhile, the Bears’ pivot to Burden and Monangai demonstrates their adaptability, ensuring they didn’t leave the draft empty-handed despite missing their top target. As the NFL community watches closely, the ripple effects of this trade saga will likely influence how teams approach future drafts, balancing immediate needs with long-term vision.
A New Standard for Draft Strategy
The Chicago Bears’ audacious bid for the Patriots’ second-round pick encapsulates the high-stakes chess game of NFL team-building. While the trade didn’t materialize, it highlighted Chicago’s ambition to redefine their trajectory and set a new standard for aggressive draft strategies. As the 2025 season approaches, the Bears’ moves—both in the draft and free agency—position them as a team to watch, with the potential to reshape the NFC North and beyond. For now, the NFL world remains abuzz, debating the implications of a trade that never was but spoke volumes about the Bears’ relentless pursuit of excellence.