Chicago Bears Secure Elite Offensive Lineman: Drew Dalman Signs Five-Year Contract
In a significant move to strengthen their offensive line, the Chicago Bears have officially signed center Drew Dalman to a five-year contract. Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed the acquisition, expressing enthusiasm about the impact Dalman is expected to bring to the team’s performance in the upcoming seasons.
Drew Dalman, born on October 15, 1998, in Salinas, California, has steadily risen through the ranks of professional football. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 305 pounds, Dalman played college football at Stanford University, where he distinguished himself as a formidable center. His collegiate accolades include First-Team All-Pac-12 honors in 2020 and Second-Team All-Pac-12 in 2019. Dalman’s academic dedication was equally impressive, earning him a spot on the CoSIDA Academic All-America team, thanks to his 3.61 GPA in mechanical engineering.
The Atlanta Falcons recognized Dalman’s potential, selecting him in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft with the 114th overall pick. He signed a four-year rookie contract on June 17, 2021, and quickly adapted to the professional arena. After serving as a backup during his rookie season, Dalman secured the starting center position in 2022. Over his tenure with the Falcons, he played in 57 games, starting 40 of them. His performance in 2024 was particularly notable, achieving an overall grade of 78.8 from Pro Football Focus, ranking fourth among centers. His run-blocking prowess was highlighted by a 79.8 grade, placing him fifth in his position.
The Bears’ decision to sign Dalman aligns with their commitment to strengthening the offensive line, a critical component for the team’s success. Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized the importance of this move, stating, “Securing a player of Drew’s caliber is a significant step towards achieving our goals. His experience and skill set will undoubtedly enhance our offensive strategies.”
This acquisition comes at a pivotal time for the Bears, who have been actively seeking to improve their offensive line. Analysts have identified the center position as a key area needing reinforcement, and Dalman’s signing addresses this need effectively. His consistent performance and durability make him a valuable asset as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Dalman’s tenure with the Falcons showcased his ability to anchor the offensive line effectively. In 2023, he started all 14 games he appeared in, contributing to the Falcons achieving the fifth-lowest opponent pressure rate at 30.4% and ranking ninth in rushing offense, averaging 127.0 yards per game. His leadership and consistency were instrumental in these accomplishments.
Pro Football Focus’s evaluation further underscores Dalman’s impact. His overall grade of 78.8 in 2024 reflects his balanced proficiency in both pass protection and run blocking. Such metrics highlight his reliability and effectiveness, qualities the Bears anticipate will translate seamlessly into their offensive schemes.
With Dalman now part of the roster, the Bears are poised to enhance their offensive capabilities. His experience and proven track record provide a solid foundation for the team’s offensive line. As the Bears gear up for the upcoming season, the integration of Dalman’s skills and leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in their pursuit of success.
In conclusion, the signing of Drew Dalman represents a strategic and timely move for the Chicago Bears. By securing a center of his caliber, the team addresses a crucial need and positions itself for improved performance in the seasons to come.
