2026 NFL draft: Chicago Bears updates, intel, buzz

The Bears are set to pick No. 25 and have seven total selections in the 2026 draft. Here's the latest on what Chicago might do.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:25pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a Chicago Bears football game, with the players and field broken down into abstract shapes and planes of navy blue, burnt orange, and white.The Bears' offensive line is a key focus as the team prepares for the 2026 NFL draft, with the left tackle position a critical need to address.Today in Pittsburgh

The 2026 NFL draft is set to take place in Pittsburgh, with the Chicago Bears holding the 25th overall pick in the first round and seven total selections. The Bears' left tackle competition is a key focus, with Braxton Jones, Jedrick Wills Jr., Theo Benedet and Kiran Amegadjie all vying for the starting role. Coach Ben Johnson says the team is in a good position to stay true to their draft board and address needs at offensive tackle, defensive tackle or defensive end.

Why it matters

The Bears' offensive line is a critical area of need heading into the 2026 draft, with uncertainty around the left tackle position following an injury to Ozzy Trapilo. Addressing this need early in the draft could be crucial for the team's success next season.

The details

The Bears have seven total picks in the 2026 draft: Nos. 25, 57, 60, 89, 129, 239 and 241. Coach Ben Johnson says the team is in a good position to stay true to their draft board and address needs at offensive tackle, defensive tackle or defensive end with their first-round pick. The left tackle competition will feature Braxton Jones, Jedrick Wills Jr., Theo Benedet and Kiran Amegadjie, all of whom have not logged consistent high-end play at the position in the last 12 months.

  • The 2026 NFL draft begins on April 23 in Pittsburgh.
  • Rounds 2-3 will be held on April 24.
  • Rounds 4-7 will be held on April 25.

The players

Ben Johnson

The head coach of the Chicago Bears.

Braxton Jones

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

Jedrick Wills Jr.

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

Theo Benedet

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

Kiran Amegadjie

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

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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, Head Coach

The takeaway

The Bears' offensive line, particularly the left tackle position, is a key area of focus heading into the 2026 NFL draft. The team has the flexibility to address this need with their first-round pick, while also potentially targeting defensive tackle or defensive end if the right prospect is available. Whichever direction they choose, the Bears are in a good position to stay true to their draft board and make impactful selections to improve the team.