ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has projected the Chicago Bears to select Big Ten’s 2024 leader in receptions with the 10th overall pick in his latest mock draft. This prediction has stirred excitement and debate among analysts and fans alike as the Bears seek to support second-year QB Caleb Williams.
NFL Draft Expert Mel Kiper Projects Chicago Bears To Take A Versatile Asset
In his fourth mock draft for ESPN, NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper had the Chicago Bears taking Penn State tight end Tyler Warren at No. 10 in the 2025 NFL Draft. Warren’s considered a complete, well-rounded player at his position who can give a play-caller loads of flexibility when scheming against NFL defenses.
Kiper noted that Warren can line up anywhere on the field – in-line, out wide, in the slot, and even in the backfield. He’s a playmaker with the ball in his hands, capable of racking up yards after the catch and making tough contested catches.
Warren’s widely viewed as a reliable target who can be a safety valve over the middle and a seam-stretcher. He’s also seen as a good blocker who can make quick adjustments. Warren’s athleticism and competitiveness are often highlighted when summarizing his strengths and abilities.
Some believe Warren’s blocking needs improvement, particularly in sustaining blocks when in-line, and there also might be concerns about his ability to separate on vertical routes.
Kiper sees Warren as an impact player in the NFL, with the versatility to fit into various offensive schemes.
Warren’s collegiate career was highlighted by winning the prestigious John Mackey Award in 2024, given annually to the nation’s top tight end.
Why Did Kiper Project Warren to Chicago?
The Bears have pressing needs at offensive tackle, edge rusher, and running back. However, Kiper’s endorsement of Warren reflects a strategic pivot toward enhancing their offensive prowess under new head coach Ben Johnson. Johnson previously worked with All-Pro tight end Sam LaPorta during his tenure with the Detroit Lions and is known for leveraging tight ends creatively within his offensive schemes.
While the Bears already have Cole Kmet as their starting tight end, Warren’s arrival could signal a shift toward two-tight-end sets or even more innovative personnel groupings. Kiper emphasized Warren’s ability to stretch defenses vertically while also contributing physically at the line of scrimmage. This makes him an attractive option for a team looking to add dynamic playmakers.
Kiper stated, “Offseason moves to add interior offensive linemen Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson and Drew Dalman should buy Caleb Williams more time to throw. Landing Warren would give the second-year quarterback another reliable target.”
Kiper added, “New Bears coach Ben Johnson could line up Warren anywhere, get him the ball and let him roll to first downs after the catch. The versatile tight end had 1,233 receiving yards last season, and 700 of them came once the ball was in his hands. Chicago got only 512 total yards out of its tight end room in 2024, but the combination of Warren and Cole Kmet could do some damage.”
Key Moments Leading to Kiper’s Latest Draft Projection
The mock draft landscape shifted significantly in recent weeks. Early projections had Warren going as high as ninth overall to the New Orleans Saints or even slipping into the mid-first round. However, with top offensive tackles like LSU’s Will Campbell and Missouri’s Armand Membou off the board by pick No. 10, Kiper saw Warren as the best available player for Chicago.
Additionally, reports suggest that NFL executives view Warren as one of the “cleanest prospects” in this year’s draft class. His character, toughness, and intelligence have drawn praise from scouts, with one executive stating: “He checks every box“.
Before Bears fans get too excited, Kiper previously had mocked Warren to the New York Jets at No. 7, as did PFSN’s Reese Decker who called Warren “a blue-chip talent” in his most recent seven-round mock draft.
With Warren off the board, Decker had the Bears taking Membou, adding, “This is a no-brainer for an organization that has been fiercely committed to transforming an offensive line unit that came dangerously close to breaking the single-season record for most sacks allowed, giving up a staggering 68 in 2024.”
What Taking Tyler Warren Means for Chicago
If Kiper’s projection materializes on draft night, Tyler Warren could immediately impact Chicago’s offense. His presence would create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses and provide quarterback Justin Fields with another reliable target.
Warren’s selection raises questions about Cole Kmet’s future with the Bears. While Johnson could find ways to utilize both players effectively in 2025, Kmet’s contract situation may make him expendable after the 2025 season.
Drafting Warren shows that Chicago is prioritizing versatility and adaptability on offense—a necessary step for a team aiming to compete in a crowded NFC North division. Anyone who watched Ben Johnson’s offenses in Detroit the past few seasons knows how creative the OC could get. With a weapon like Warren, Ben Johnson’s already dynamic playbook gets even more tantalizing.