In the build-up to the 2026 NFL Draft, there are a ton of needs that the Bears could look to address early in the draft. Wide receiver, offensive line, defensive line, cornerback and safety are all needs for the Bears this offseason.
While running back, linebacker and tight end aren't needed, depth wouldn't be a bad idea. However, if there were one spot the Bears do not need, it would be a quarterback, thanks to Caleb Williams.
Despite not needing the position, according to ESPN's Courtney Cronin, Bears general manager Ryan Poles was the only GM to be at Alabama's Pro Day to watch Ty Simpson throw.
It's a strange situation on the surface, but there is an explanation.
Bears' Ryan Poles only GM at Ty Simpson's Pro Day
"Ryan Poles (to the right with AGM Jeff King) watching Ty Simpson throw in Tuscaloosa," Cronin reports. "The Bears GM is the only general manager in attendance at Alabama's pro day."
Poles being the only general manager across the NFL to be at Alabama's pro day is an interesting fact on its own, but it's especially interesting considering Simpson is the second-best quarterback in this year's draft class.
One would expect more of a presence from QB-needy teams at the Alabama pro day. But potentially thanks to such attention, their plans for the draft might be revealed.
For a team needing a quarterback, like the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns or Pittsburgh Steelers, showing up with the GM at the Alabama pro day to watch Simpson might be showing their hand.
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But why is Poles in attendance? It's likely not for Simpson, but rather the other Alabama rookies in the upcoming draft class.
Kadyn Proctor is an interesting offensive line prospect, while Germie Bernard is a fun wide receiver the Bears could consider out of Alabama.
Other options for the Bears out of Alabama in the 2026 NFL Draft are Edge LT Overton, LB Deontae Lawson, DT Tim Keenan III, TE Josh Cuevas, OG Jaeden Roberts, C Parker Brailsford and CB Domani Jackson, among others.
Whether Poles was watching Simpson specifically, or one of those other top Alabama prospects, won't be known. But it doesn't mean his appearance as the lone NFL GM at Alabama's pro day isn't interesting.
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