Bears Could Trade Back and Still Land Top Draft Target

NFL Draft analysts suggest two defensive line prospects may be available later than expected

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:35am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players and draft prospects, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange colors representing the complex maneuvering of an NFL team's draft plans.The Bears' draft strategy could involve a calculated trade back to land a top defensive line target.Clemson Today

According to recent reports, the Chicago Bears' top draft targets - Clemson's Peter Woods and Ohio State's Kayden McDonald - may be available later than the 25th overall pick. This could allow the Bears to trade back and still land one of these highly-touted defensive linemen, providing much-needed help against the run.

Why it matters

The Bears struggled mightily against the run in 2025, ranking near the bottom of the league. Addressing this weakness along the interior defensive line is a top priority, and landing either Woods or McDonald would be a significant boost to their defense.

The details

ESPN's Jordan Reid reports that teams are putting second-round grades on both Woods and McDonald, suggesting they may not be first-round locks as previously assumed. Woods has dealt with inconsistency and a poor pre-draft process, while McDonald is viewed as more of a two-down run-stuffer than a pass-rushing threat.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

Peter Woods

A defensive lineman from Clemson University who has been linked to the Bears in the first round, but may now be available later due to concerns about his inconsistent play and pre-draft process.

Kayden McDonald

A defensive tackle from Ohio State University who is considered one of the top run-stopping interior linemen in the draft, and has indicated the Bears view him as their 'No. 1 guy' late in the first round.

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What they’re saying

“The inconsistencies of Peter Woods (Clemson) throughout the season and during the predraft process have caused most teams I have spoken with to put an early-to-mid second-round mark on him.”

— Jordan Reid, ESPN Analyst

“Kayden McDonald (Ohio State) has mixed reviews because of his lack of pass-rushing ability; many teams wouldn't use a first-round pick on a two-down interior defender.”

— Jordan Reid, ESPN Analyst

“They've talked to me a lot. I'm their No. 1 guy. That's what I feel like. They seem very excited to get me up there. They say they like how I play and they like my motor. I play all four quarters, and I'm relentless.”

— Kayden McDonald

What’s next

The Bears will have to weigh their options at the 25th overall pick, deciding whether to take one of their top defensive line targets or potentially trade back to acquire additional picks and still land one of them.

The takeaway

This report suggests the Bears may have more flexibility in the first round than previously thought, potentially allowing them to trade back and still address their pressing need on the interior defensive line. Acquiring a dominant run-stopper like Kayden McDonald could be a game-changer for their defense.