Chicago Bears Prepare for 2026 NFL Draft with Key Needs and Prospects

As the draft approaches, the Bears look to fill holes at EDGE rusher, safety, and offensive line.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:10pm

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting fragmented and overlapping shapes in navy blue, orange, and white, representing the dynamic action of a Chicago Bears football game.The Bears' draft strategy aims to add key pieces that can elevate the team's performance on both sides of the ball.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft, with key needs at EDGE rusher, safety, and offensive line. The team has the 25th overall pick in the first round, as well as two second-round selections and several other picks throughout the draft. Prospects like TJ Parker, Dillon Thieneman, and Max Iheanachor are among the names to watch as the Bears look to build on their playoff appearance last season.

Why it matters

The Bears are coming off a successful 2025 season, making the playoffs, and will look to the draft to continue improving their roster and contend in the NFC North. Addressing key needs at pass rusher, safety, and on the offensive line will be crucial for the team's long-term success.

The details

The Bears have identified EDGE rusher, safety, and offensive line as their biggest needs heading into the draft. At EDGE, they hope to find a player who can complement Montez Sweat and the interior defensive line. At safety, they need to replace the departed Jaquan Brisker with a versatile player who can defend the run and pass. On the offensive line, they are looking for a left tackle to protect the quarterback, as well as a long-term solution at center.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft starts on Thursday, April 24th.
  • The Bears have the 25th overall pick in the first round.

The players

Montez Sweat

A key part of the Bears' defensive line who the team hopes to complement with a new EDGE rusher.

Dayo Odeyingbo

A Bears defensive lineman who is returning from an Achilles injury and will be part of the team's pass rush rotation.

Garrett Bradbury

The Bears' current starting center, who is only under contract for one more year, leading the team to look for a long-term solution at the position.

Braxton Jones

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

Theo Benedet

Another player competing for the Bears' starting left tackle position.

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What they’re saying

“This is a draft that's deep in EDGE rushers. The Bears can find one in any round, but the higher the round the better.”

— Chris Kwiecinski, Author

“They can find one of those [safety] players in the first three rounds.”

— Chris Kwiecinski, Author

What’s next

The Bears will have their full slate of draft picks, including three in the top 60, to address their key needs and continue building a roster capable of competing in the NFC North.

The takeaway

The Bears enter the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear plan to upgrade their roster in critical areas like pass rush, safety, and the offensive line. With multiple early-round picks, they have the opportunity to add immediate-impact players who can help the team build on its playoff appearance last season.