Bears Eyeing Top Pass Rushers After Texans' Blockbuster Deal

Chicago's defense struggled to generate consistent pressure last season, and the team has extra incentive to address that need in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:06pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, their body broken down into overlapping planes of navy blue, orange, and white, conveying the raw energy and power of an NFL pass rush.A cubist illustration captures the intensity and chaos of an NFL pass rush, reflecting the Bears' need to upgrade their defensive front.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bears are expected to prioritize drafting a top pass rusher in the upcoming NFL Draft after the Houston Texans signed edge defender Will Anderson Jr. to a record-breaking $150 million contract extension. The Bears' defense ranked 23rd in sack percentage last season, and they will look to find an impact player to bolster their pass rush with their first-round pick at #25 overall.

Why it matters

The Bears' inability to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks was a major weakness for their defense last season, as they gave up 232.3 passing yards and 24.3 points per game. Upgrading the pass rush is a clear priority for Chicago heading into the draft, and the Texans' deal with Anderson shows the premium placed on elite edge rushers in today's NFL.

The details

Chicago had just 35 sacks last season, tied for the seventh-fewest in the league. Gervon Dexter Sr. led the team with 6 sacks, while Montez Sweat had 10. The Bears have the 25th overall pick in the draft, and several top pass rushing prospects like Zion Young, Akheem Mesidor, Cashius Howell, R Mason Thomas, and T.J. Parker could be available when they are on the clock.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is less than a week away.

The players

Will Anderson Jr.

An All-Pro edge rusher for the Houston Texans who just signed a record-breaking 3-year, $150 million extension.

Gervon Dexter Sr.

A defensive lineman for the Chicago Bears who led the team with 6 sacks last season.

Montez Sweat

A defensive end for the Chicago Bears who recorded 10 sacks last season.

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What’s next

The Bears will have the opportunity to address their pass rush needs with the 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, where they could target players like Zion Young, Akheem Mesidor, Cashius Howell, R Mason Thomas, or T.J. Parker.

The takeaway

The Bears' struggles to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks last season were a major weakness for their defense. With the Texans setting a new high bar for elite pass rushers, Chicago has even more incentive to use its first-round pick on an impact edge defender who can help transform their defensive front.