Bears Load Up on Defensive Talent in 7-Round Mock Draft

Chicago targets pass rush, secondary, and offensive line in 2026 NFL Draft

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:21pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the chaotic energy and movement of a Chicago Bears football game, with players' forms dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes.The Bears' draft haul injects new energy and talent into a team looking to build on its recent playoff success.Chicago Today

In a seven-round mock draft, the Chicago Bears focus on bolstering their defense and offensive line, selecting an edge rusher, safety, cornerback, and offensive tackle, while also adding a center and wide receiver to round out their picks.

Why it matters

The Bears are coming off a playoff appearance and look to build on that success by addressing key needs on both sides of the ball through the draft. Strengthening the pass rush, secondary, and offensive line will be crucial as they aim to compete in the NFC North.

The details

With the 25th overall pick, the Bears select EDGE Zion Young, a highly productive pass rusher who can team up with Montez Sweat to bolster the team's pass rush. In the second round, they grab OC Sam Hecht to provide insurance and competition at the center position. Later, they add WR Ja'Kobi Lane, S Jalon Kilgore, DT Zane Durant, OT Amil Wagner, and CB Collin Wright to address other areas of need.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is set to take place in the coming weeks.

The players

Zion Young

A highly productive edge rusher who the Bears select with their first-round pick to pair with Montez Sweat and improve their pass rush.

Sam Hecht

The center the Bears target in the second round to provide depth and competition at the position after the retirement of Drew Dalman.

Ja'Kobi Lane

A tall, talented wide receiver the Bears add in the third round to help replace the production of traded WR DJ Moore.

Jalon Kilgore

A versatile safety the Bears select in the fourth round to play opposite Coby Bryant in the secondary.

Zane Durant

A fast, explosive defensive tackle the Bears pick in the fifth round to bolster their defensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Zion Young is one of the most productive pass rushers in the draft. Getting him alongside Montez Sweat could help charge a pass rush that needs it.”

— Chris Kwiecinski, Author

“If Hecht is ready next season, he could take over for the long-term. With Drew Dalman's retirement, the Bears can't miss on their center.”

— Chris Kwiecinski, Author

What’s next

The Bears will look to sign any undrafted free agents and continue to evaluate their roster ahead of training camp as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Bears' draft strategy focuses on bolstering both sides of the ball, targeting key positions of need like pass rush, secondary, and offensive line. These selections aim to build on the team's playoff appearance and position them for sustained success in the NFC North.