Bears Predicted to Draft Elite Run-Stuffing Defensive Lineman

Ohio State's Kayden McDonald could be the answer to Chicago's run defense woes.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 11:19am

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The Chicago Bears were one of the worst teams in the NFL at stopping the run in 2025, ranking 27th in the league in rushing yards allowed per game. In a recent mock draft, the Bears were predicted to select Ohio State defensive lineman Kayden McDonald with the 25th overall pick to address this weakness upfront.

Why it matters

The Bears' inability to stop the run was a major liability in 2025, and addressing this issue through the draft is crucial for the team's defensive improvement. McDonald, with his elite run defense skills, could be the answer Chicago needs to shore up its defensive line.

The details

McDonald, a 6-foot-3, 326-pound lineman, was dominant against the run in 2025, finishing with a 92.0 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked first among interior defenders. He also recorded nine tackles for loss and four sacks. The Bears have shown significant interest in McDonald and believe he could be their 'No. 1 guy' with their first-round pick.

  • In 2025, the Bears gave up 134.5 rushing yards per game, ranking 27th in the NFL.
  • McDonald is entering the 2026 NFL Draft after his standout 2025 season at Ohio State.

The players

Kayden McDonald

A 6-foot-3, 326-pound defensive lineman from Ohio State University who was dominant against the run in 2025, finishing with a 92.0 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus.

Grady Jarrett

One of the Bears' starting defensive tackles in 2025, who finished 105th in Pro Football Focus' run defense grade out of 134 interior defenders.

Gervon Dexter

The other starting defensive tackle for the Bears in 2025, who finished 107th in Pro Football Focus' run defense grade out of 134 interior defenders.

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What they’re saying

“'The Bears get their defensive run stopper by selecting Kayden McDonald with the No. 25 overall pick. With his physical dominance, the former Ohio State defensive lineman brings attitude, power and that force in the middle of the Bears' defensive line that could help transcend the defense.'”

— Tarringo Basile-Vaughan, NFL Mocks Analyst

“'They've talked to me a lot. I'm their No. 1 guy. That's what I feel like. They seem very excited to get me up there. They say they like how I play and they like my motor. I play all four quarters, and I'm relentless.'”

— Kayden McDonald

What’s next

The Bears will meet with Kayden McDonald on April 1 as they continue to evaluate him ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

By drafting Kayden McDonald, the Bears can immediately improve their run defense, which was a major weakness in 2025. McDonald's elite run-stopping ability and relentless motor could be the key to transforming the Bears' defensive line and helping the team return to playoff contention.