Bears Eyeing Divisive Edge Rusher Keldric Faulk in NFL Draft

Chicago may take a chance on the talented but inconsistent Auburn defensive lineman with the 25th overall pick.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:33am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, geometric painting depicting the dynamic motion of a football player rushing the passer, with sharp planes of navy blue, orange, and white conveying the raw power and athleticism of the prospect.A cubist interpretation of a pass rusher's explosive movements captures the raw athleticism and potential of a divisive NFL draft prospect.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bears are reportedly considering drafting Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk with their first-round pick, despite concerns about his limited college production and inconsistent pass-rushing ability. Faulk's combination of size, length, power, and athleticism has intrigued the Bears, who are looking to shore up their run defense and find a potential star pass rusher to develop under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.

Why it matters

The Bears' defense struggled against the run last season, finishing 27th in the league. Faulk's ability to set the edge and stop the run could help address that issue. However, his uneven pass-rushing skills are a concern, and the Bears would be taking a risk by using a first-round pick on a player with such an inconsistent college resume.

The details

Faulk, a 20-year-old junior, had only 10 sacks in three seasons at Auburn. But his combination of size (6'6", 276 lbs), length (34-inch arms), power, and athleticism has intrigued the Bears. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has a history of developing young pass rushers, and he believes he can mold Faulk into a star if the player is willing to learn. The Bears are hoping Faulk can follow in the footsteps of players like Trey Hendrickson and Carl Granderson, who thrived under Allen's coaching.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 27-29.

The players

Keldric Faulk

A 20-year-old junior defensive lineman from Auburn University who is considered a divisive prospect due to his limited college production but impressive physical tools.

Dennis Allen

The defensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears, known for his ability to develop young pass rushers like Trey Hendrickson and Carl Granderson.

Jeremy Garrett

The defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears, who will be tasked with helping Faulk reach his potential if the team drafts him.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There aren't many guys like him in this draft. Few players have his size (6'6", 276 lbs), length (34 inches), power, and athleticism in one package. Players like that become stars if the light ever goes on, and he's also a perfect fit for Dennis Allen's defense.”

— Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune reporter

What’s next

The Bears will have to decide whether Faulk's potential is worth the risk of using their first-round pick on him. If they do select him, the focus will shift to how well he develops under Allen and Garrett's coaching.

The takeaway

The Bears' interest in Keldric Faulk highlights the team's need to improve its run defense and find a potential star pass rusher. While Faulk's physical tools are tantalizing, his inconsistent college production is a concern. The Bears will have to weigh the risks and rewards of drafting Faulk in the first round.