Chicago Bears GM remaining optimistic on forgotten 2nd-round pick

The Chicago Bears are still trying to find their perfect combination across the defensive line. In their ideal world, former second-round pick Shemar Turner would be a part of it.

Instead, Turner is on the Physically Unable to Perform list as he recovers from his torn ACL. While he still has more hurdles to leap, general manager Ryan Poles remains confident in Turner’s ability to soon make an impact, via Kevin Fishbain of the Athletic.

“He’s already doing position work off to the side,” Poles said. “We’ll simulate some individual and practice-type things to get him prepared mentally and physically, and his endurance needs to continue to improve. But he’s working his butt off. I would imagine him being back at some point here when he gets through this little last phase of his rehab.”

“Knocking that rust off and becoming a football player, starting to get that short-area quickness and really being able to react and have the instincts come back,” he continued. “Especially playing defensive line, you’re getting hit from every different direction. … When that happens it’ll be great and we’ll get him back out there, but I’m not exactly sure of when that all is going to occur.”

Chicago Bears still waiting for Shemar Turner impact

Shemar Turner Chicago Bears — Oct 19, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Shemar Turner (95) reacts against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Selected with the No. 62 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bears have high expectations for the defensive lineman. But after the first give games of his rookie season, Turner was lost for the year.

When he does return, the lineman offers the level of versatility Chicago is looking for. He played both defensive end and tackle over his four years with Texas A&M. In that time, Turner put up 115 tackles, 22.5 for a loss and 10 sacks.

Poles still clearly feels that he could be a pivotal piece of the defense. But the first order of business is getting back on the gridiron. Once Turner is cleared, the Bears will be able to truly evaluate where he stands.

The post Chicago Bears GM remaining optimistic on forgotten 2nd-round pick appeared first on ChiCitySports.