As the 2025 NFL free agency period approaches, the Chicago Bears are being widely regarded as a serious contender for Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman, one of the top players available at his position. With negotiations set to begin on March 10, momentum continues to build around Chicago’s pursuit of the highly rated offensive lineman.
General manager Ryan Poles has already made significant strides in bolstering the Bears’ offensive line this offseason, securing All-Pro guard Joe Thuney and former Lions standout Jonah Jackson. However, the center position remains a crucial area of need, and Dalman is viewed as an ideal solution.
According to Fox Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz, league sources identify Chicago as one of the strongest potential landing spots for Dalman, who would serve as the final piece to solidify the team’s interior offensive line.
“Falcons free agent center Drew Dalman is expected to have a strong market, with many around the league viewing the Bears as a serious suitor. Chicago has already added Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson and still has a need at center,” Schultz reported.
Dalman, 26, appeared in nine games for the Falcons last season and earned the fourth-highest Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade among all centers. A fourth-round selection from Stanford in 2021, he became Atlanta’s starting center in 2022 and has since established himself as one of the premier players at the position.
Ranked as PFF’s 26th-best free agent in this year’s class, Dalman is projected to command a four-year, $56 million contract. Given his impact and value, his average annual salary could surpass $14 million per season—an investment the Bears may be willing to make to solidify a long-standing area of weakness.
If Chicago successfully acquires Dalman, their projected starting offensive line would feature Braxton Jones at left tackle, Joe Thuney at left guard, Dalman at center, Jonah Jackson at right guard, and Darnell Wright at right tackle.
Such a formidable unit would provide an immense boost for Chicago’s quarterback—potentially rookie Caleb Williams—ensuring improved protection and stability in the trenches for years to come