Bear Witness With the 2026 NFL Draft just a few days out, I thought I would discuss the draft from the Bears’ perspective. Most of my knowledge about prospects comes from podcasts like NFL Stock Exchange, The Athletic Football Show, and other draft resources. Unfortunately I can’t watch all the tape for these prospects. The rounds listed below are grades, not necessarily where the player will get picked.
Needs
First, I think needs have shifted based on free agent signings. The three highest priorities in my opinion are across the defensive line, safety, and offensive line. I also think there’s potential for a corner and WR3 among other positions. Additionally, if a highly talented player falls, I wouldn’t be surprised if they just went Best Player Available.
D-line
This year’s d-line class seems solid, but not amazing. DC Dennis Allen has typically preferred bigger body edge players (265+ lbs) that can be firm against the run and smaller, quicker interior players (~300 lbs). Of course, it’s not a guarantee that the Bears will only draft players with this profile. However, I think it’s worth looking at a few fits for pick 25.
Keldric Faulk | EDGE | Auburn | 6057 | 274 | Rd 1-2: Faulk is a large edge defender who plays strong against the run. He racked up 7 sacks in 2024, but production took a dip in 2025. The pass rush flashes are there - he played a decent amount of snaps at the 4i alignment which can lead to less production. He received extremely strong praise from Auburn staff on his character and leadership.
T.J. Parker | EDGE | Clemson | 6035 | 263 | Rd 1-2: Parker had a tremendous 2024 season (11 sacks) and came into 2025 with lofty expectations. Unfortunately, the 2025 season was relatively disappointing for both him and the team. He’s a disruptive, high floor player with a high motor.
Zion Young | EDGE | Missouri | 6056 | 267 | Rd 1-2: Young is a fiery edge who plays with violence and power, especially against the run. There are a few character concerns - the Bears have historically taken these red flags very seriously.
Peter Woods | DT | Clemson | 6024 | 298 | Rd 1-2: Similar to Parker, came into the year with lots of hype. He didn’t fully live up to the hype and had some potential effort issues in Clemson’s rough 2025 season. The measurables aren’t ideal, but he’s a quick interior penetrator with pass rush juice.
Some other names for day 2 and beyond: Gabe Jacas (EDGE, Illinois, Rd 2-3), Gracen Halton (DT, Oklahoma, Rd 4), Rayshaun Benny (DT, Michigan, Rd 4-5)
Safety
The safety class looks pretty strong. Given that Coby Bryant is more of a free safety, I’d guess the Bears target more of a strong safety type. My assumption is that Downs and Thieneman are gone by 25. To me, the only other safety that may be there and would be worth the pick is Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | Toledo | 6304 | 201 | Rd 1-2: EMW is a big, fluid, hard-hitting safety with competent coverage skills. He forced a ton of fumbles at Toledo and would likely play more in the box for the Bears.
There should be tons of options on day 2 and on at the position. Here are a few: A.J. Haulcy (S, LSU, Rd 2-3), Jalon Kilgore (S, South Carolina, Rd 3)
O-line
This is a bit of future-proofing. Given that the long-term answer at LT is unknown due to the Trapilo injury, I could see the Bears swinging on a tackle early. I also think the interior of the o-line could use some bolstering, especially considering Thuney’s age and Jackson’s injury history. In the first round, I think a tackle is most likely, although guard could be in play. I’d guess Ben Johnson would prefer athletic lineman with the ability to work in outside zone specifically.
Kadyn Proctor | OT | Alabama | 6065 | 352 | Rd 1-2: Proctor is a huge, athletic tackle who needs refinement in pass pro. He may end up sliding inside to guard.
Caleb Lomu | OT | Utah | 6062 | 313 | Rd 1-2: Lomu is a good athlete that needs to get stronger and develop more tools to deal with NFL power.
Max Iheanachor | OT | Arizona State | 6057 | 321 | Rd 1-2: Iheanachor is a raw prospect who has only been playing football for five years. He has phenomenal physical traits but is likely more of a long-term project with super high upside. He also only played RT in college.
Names to watch on day 2 and on: Keylan Rutledge (OG, Georgia Tech, Rd 2-3), Gennings Dunker (OG, Iowa, Rd 3), Sam Hecht (C, Kansas State, Rd 3-4), Logan Jones (C, Iowa, Rd 3-4), Connor Lew (C, Auburn, Rd 3-4), Parker Brailsford (C, Alabama, Rd 5)
Conclusion
Hopefully this gives an overview of team needs and possible options. I’m pretty confident there will be a few swings at a WR, CB, LB, etc. down the board. Additionally, at pick 25, I definitely think the Bears could also look to trade down. The problem is that it takes two to tango. I’m not sure which team would want to move up. Either way, I’m looking forward to seeing the newest members of the Chicago Bears get their names called this week.