Bears Weigh Options for 25th Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

Chicago has seven total selections but uncertainty at left tackle could shift priorities in Round 1.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:39pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented Chicago Bears football game, with sharp planes of navy blue, orange, and white overlapping to create a dynamic, multi-perspective visual.The Bears' draft strategy must balance addressing needs on the offensive line with staying true to their overall board.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bears hold the 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which begins on April 23 in Pittsburgh. With seven total selections, the Bears have options to address needs at various positions, including pass rusher and offensive tackle. However, the uncertain timeline for left tackle Ozzy Trapilo's return from injury could push the Bears to prioritize that position in the first round.

Why it matters

The Bears' offensive line has been a point of emphasis in recent drafts, and the uncertainty at left tackle creates a potential need that could influence their strategy with the 25th pick. Addressing that position early could provide stability and protection for the team's quarterback.

The details

Bears head coach Ben Johnson said the team is in a good position to stay true to their draft board and go in any direction, whether that's offensive tackle, defensive tackle or defensive end. The Bears' left tackle competition will feature Braxton Jones, Jedrick Wills Jr., Theo Benedet and Kiran Amegadjie, none of whom have logged consistent high-end play at the position in the last year.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft begins on April 23 in Pittsburgh.
  • The Bears have seven total picks: Nos. 25, 57, 60, 89, 129, 239 and 241.

The players

Ozzy Trapilo

The Bears' starting left tackle, whose injury timeline creates uncertainty for the position.

Braxton Jones

One of the players competing for the Bears' left tackle job.

Jedrick Wills Jr.

One of the players competing for the Bears' left tackle job.

Theo Benedet

One of the players competing for the Bears' left tackle job.

Kiran Amegadjie

One of the players competing for the Bears' left tackle job.

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What they’re saying

“I think we've put ourselves in a really good situation to where -- much like last year -- we can go into this draft and stay true to our board and not force any pick. If there's a (offensive) tackle or a defensive tackle or a D-end, I think we can go any direction we need to and stay true to that and feel pretty good about it.”

— Ben Johnson, Bears Head Coach

What’s next

The Bears will continue to evaluate their options and potential targets leading up to the draft, with the uncertainty at left tackle potentially being a key factor in their first-round strategy.

The takeaway

The Bears have flexibility with their seven draft picks, but the injury situation at left tackle could push them to prioritize that position early in the draft to provide stability and protection for their quarterback. Their ability to stay true to their draft board while addressing a key need will be crucial to their success in the 2026 NFL Draft.