Chicago Bears Land Defensive Game-Changer in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Daniel Jeremiah connects Bears to explosive DT prospect at No. 25 overall

Feb. 18, 2026 at 5:55pm

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In his latest 2026 NFL mock draft, NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah projects the Chicago Bears to select defensive tackle Peter Woods, an athletic interior defender who could provide the disruptive presence their defensive line has lacked. The Bears are looking to build on a solid 2025 season and close the gap to becoming a Super Bowl contender, and Jeremiah believes Woods' penetration skills would be a valuable addition.

Why it matters

The Bears' defensive front was solid at times in 2025 but lacked consistency and a true game-changing interior presence. Adding an athletic tackle like Woods could help create more backfield disruption and stress for opposing offenses, which would complement the team's existing defensive pieces.

The details

Jeremiah notes that Woods is viewed as one of the more athletic interior defensive prospects in the 2026 class, with the first-step quickness and gap-splitting ability to be more than just a run-stuffer. With the defensive line tackle class lacking blue-chip prospects, Jeremiah believes Woods' traits could push him into the Bears' first-round range at pick No. 25.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in the spring of 2026.

The players

Peter Woods

A highly athletic defensive tackle prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class, known for his first-step quickness and ability to disrupt the backfield.

Ryan Poles

The general manager of the Chicago Bears, entering the 2026 offseason with few holes to fill but still looking to improve the defensive line.

Montez Sweat

A defensive end for the Chicago Bears, who could form a formidable front four with the addition of an explosive tackle like Peter Woods.

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What they’re saying

“Woods has consistently been viewed as one of the more athletic interior defenders in the 2026 NFL Draft class. His first-step quickness and ability to split gaps make him more than just a run-stuffer.”

— Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Analyst

What’s next

The Bears will continue to evaluate prospects ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, with defensive line being a key area of focus as they look to build a championship-caliber roster.

The takeaway

By targeting an athletic, disruptive defensive tackle like Peter Woods in the first round, the Bears could significantly upgrade their defensive front and take a major step towards closing the gap to becoming a Super Bowl contender in 2026.