Mel Kiper Jr.'s Latest Mock Draft Has Chicago Bears Addressing Edge Rusher at No. 25

Chicago's defense needs a boost in pass rush, and Kiper believes Zion Young could be the answer.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:10pm

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In his latest 2026 NFL mock draft, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. projects the Chicago Bears to select edge rusher Zion Young with the 25th overall pick. The Bears' pass rush has been a weakness in recent seasons, and Young's high-motor, powerful style could provide the boost the defense needs opposite star defensive end Montez Sweat.

Why it matters

The Bears have struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, finishing 22nd in the league in sacks and 29th in pressure rate last season. Investing a first-round pick in an impact edge rusher like Young could transform the Chicago defense and make life easier for the secondary.

The details

Young is known for his relentless motor, power, and ability to disrupt the pocket. He would provide a strong complement to Sweat, who has emerged as one of the Bears' top defensive players. With the continued development of interior lineman Gervon Dexter and the addition of Neville Gallimore, the Bears' defensive front could become a strength if they land Young in the draft.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Zion Young

A highly touted edge rusher prospect who is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Montez Sweat

The Chicago Bears' star defensive end, who recorded 10 sacks last season.

Gervon Dexter

A promising young defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears who is expected to take another step forward in his development.

Neville Gallimore

A defensive tackle the Bears added in free agency to bolster their interior defensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Zion Young's profile fits what the Bears are missing. Young plays with the kind of edge (no pun intended) that jumps off the screen. Power, motor, urgency; the traits that define disruptive pass rushers are all there.”

— Bryan Perez, Author (wcia.com)

What’s next

The Bears will have the opportunity to address their pass rush needs in the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the 25th overall pick.

The takeaway

By targeting an impact edge rusher like Zion Young in the first round, the Chicago Bears could finally solve their long-standing issues generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, transforming their defense into a true strength.