Max Iheanachor to the Windy City? Arizona State Star Linked to Bears

The Chicago Bears are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for offensive line reinforcements, and Arizona State tackle Max Iheanachor is the latest name to surface as a primary target. Reports confirmed that Iheanachor was hosted by the Bears for a Top 30 visit this week, joining a select group of elite offensive linemen that the franchise is considering for their first-round pick. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing over 300 pounds, Iheanachor has been a dominant force for the Sun Devils, establishing himself as one of the most athletic and physically imposing blockers in the Big 12.

Iheanachor’s rise to prominence has been one of the biggest stories of the 2025-2026 college football season. As a cornerstone of the Arizona State front, he helped lead an offense that found new life under the coaching staff's revamped scheme. His ability to move in space and find blocks at the second level has drawn comparisons to some of the league's best pulling guards, though his future in the NFL likely remains at tackle due to his exceptional lateral quickness. Scouts have noted his "heavy hands" and finishing mentality, traits that are highly coveted by teams looking to establish a more physical identity in the trenches.

The interest from Chicago comes at a pivotal time for the organization. With the 2026 NFL Draft less than two weeks away, the Bears are faced with the challenge of replacing injured veteran Ozzy Trapilo. Iheanachor is widely projected as a potential late first-round or early second-round selection, fitting perfectly into the range where the Bears might look to secure a Day 1 starter. His performance during the pre-draft process, including a stellar showing in drills that emphasized explosiveness, has only served to solidify his status as a top-tier prospect.

While Iheanachor is known for his physicality, his football intelligence has also been a major selling point. He was credited with allowing minimal pressures during his final season in Tempe, showing a refined understanding of pass-protection angles and defensive end tendencies. For an Arizona State program that has focused on rebuilding its prestige, Iheanachor serves as the ultimate success story of player development. His transition from a highly touted recruit to a polished NFL prospect has been seamless, and he now stands on the precipice of professional stardom.

As draft night approaches, the Sun Devil standout remains focused on the task at hand. "I just want to go to a team where I can compete and help us win," Iheanachor recently stated. Whether he lands with the Chicago Bears or another suitor, his impact on the field is expected to be immediate. In a draft class that is deep at the tackle position, Max Iheanachor’s blend of raw power and refined technique makes him one of the safest bets on the board.