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NFL: Chicago Bears Rookie Minicamp Luke Newman at Chicago Bears rookie minicamp – Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Chicago Bears draft pick preparing for position change

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated May 12, 2025 8:30 PM ET

Late into day three of the NFL Draft, teams around the league are making hopeful lottery picks. If they find a player who sticks, it’s a testament to their scouting department and a boon to how the franchise handles their cap space. The Chicago Bears are no different as new head coach Ben Johnson builds the team’s foundation.

The Bears had four picks on day three, using two on defense and one on offense. Their final pick of the draft was running back Kyle Monangai, who is pushing for a role as a rookie. One round before him, Chicago selected offensive lineman Luke Newman, with the No. 195 overall pick.

Newman played guard throughout his collegiate career. However, he understands that the quickest way to prove his value is through versatility. Which is why Newman has been focusing on learning the center position as he enters the NFL, via CHGO.

Luke Newman has been focusing this offseason learning the center position. Feels that the center position could be best for his body type in the NFL.

— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) May 11, 2025

The transition hasn’t been for naught, as Newman’s work at center caught the Bears’ eyes, via Courtney Cronin of ESPN. While he began his Chicago tenure at left guard, it wouldn’t be a shock to see him move around the interior of the line throughout the offseason program.

The Bears said that Luke Newman got onto their radar for his interior versatility, particularly when they saw him play center at the East-West Shrine game. Newman said he took most of his reps at rookie minicamp at left guard but expects to move around the IOL this offseason.

— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) May 11, 2025

Luke Newman gives Chicago Bears extra depth

NFL: Chicago Bears Rookie Minicamp Luke Newman at Chicago Bears rookie minicamp – Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

The Bears gave the interior of their offensive line a major facelift during the offseason, trading for guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney before signing center Drew Dalman. All three should give quarterback Caleb Williams more opportunities to make plays in the pocket. However, after allowing a league-high 68 sacks in 2024, Johnson and company wanted to ensure they have plenty of depth at the position.

Newman spent the first three years of his career at Holy Cross before transferring to Michigan State. After taking a redshirt year as a freshman, he immediately become Holy Cross’ starting left tackle in 2021. He shined while at the FCS level, ultimately being named a First-team All-American in 2023. Newman was a First-team All-Patriot selection his three years at starter.

But in 2024, Newman decided to take on a new challenge and transfer to Michigan State. It came with a position change as well, as the offensive lineman moved to left guard. It didn’t prove to be a problem, as Newman started all 12 games, leading the team in snaps and earning an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection.

There’s a reason Newman fell to the sixth-round. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com credits it to his “below average power,” and some technique issues. However, the Bears are confident they can mold Newman into an NFL-ready lineman. If he is able to play all three interior line positions, his chances of making an impact on the roster only go up.

Newman’s status for the 2025 season may be based on the future of Ryan Bates. The veteran has served a similar role, playing both guard and center. Perhaps the Bears keep both, opting for versatile backup options. Or, Newman can be Bates’ in-house replacement.

As the Bears continue their offseason program, Chicago will continue to see what Newman offers at both center and guard. The sixth-rounder seems up for the challenge and prepared to take on any responsibilities asked of him. But nothing is guaranteed when it comes to Newman, and he’ll need to prove he belongs in the league let alone can see regular season playing time.