Daniel Jeremiah's 2026 NFL Draft Take Could Be Exactly What the Chicago Bears Need

NFL Network draft analyst says the 2026 edge class is loaded, aligning perfectly with the Bears' biggest offseason need.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has provided an assessment of the 2026 NFL Draft class, stating that if the Chicago Bears need an edge rusher, this is a good draft to double up. Jeremiah notes the depth of the class, with 10 players worthy of a spot in the top 50 players, and another layer of talented players beyond that group. This aligns well with the Bears' need to find a long-term complement to Montez Sweat, as the team's pass rush has struggled in recent seasons.

Why it matters

The Bears' pass rush has been a weakness in recent years, with opposing coordinators able to slide protection towards Montez Sweat, resulting in poor pressure numbers. This year's draft class, which Jeremiah describes as loaded with edge rushing talent, presents an opportunity for the Bears to address this need and improve their overall defensive performance.

The details

Jeremiah highlights several potential late first-round options for the Bears, including Zion Young (Missouri), T.J. Parker (Clemson), and Akheem Mesidor (Miami). The Bears could even come away with two edge rushers in the first three rounds, given the depth of the class.

  • The Bears enter the 2026 draft cycle needing a long-term complement to Montez Sweat.
  • In 2025, the Bears ranked near the bottom of the league in pass rush win rate.

The players

Montez Sweat

A foundational piece of the Bears' defense, who remains a key part of their pass rush.

Zion Young

A potential late first-round edge rusher from Missouri.

T.J. Parker

A potential late first-round edge rusher from Clemson.

Akheem Mesidor

A potential late first-round edge rusher from Miami.

Ryan Poles

The general manager of the Chicago Bears.

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What they’re saying

“If you need an edge rusher, this is a good draft to double up. The depth of the class is impressive. I've got 10 guys worthy of a spot in top 50 players. There's another layer of traitsy players beyond that group.”

— Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Network draft analyst (X)

What’s next

The Bears will have the opportunity to address their pass rush needs in the 2026 NFL Draft, with several potential late first-round options available that could complement Montez Sweat.

The takeaway

The 2026 NFL Draft class presents a prime opportunity for the Chicago Bears to significantly improve their pass rush, which has been a weakness in recent seasons. With the depth of edge rushing talent available, the Bears could come away with multiple impact players to bolster their defense and help them compete in the NFC North.