Chicago Bears NFL draft preview: Needs, targets, best picks
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Bears GM Ryan Poles speaks at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. Photo: Cooper Neill/Getty Images
The Chicago Bears are counting on big production from this year's NFL draft.
State of play: The roster looks drastically different from the team that lost an overtime heartbreaker to the Rams in last season's divisional round.
- Gone are several key contributors, including D.J. Moore, Tremaine Edmunds, Kevin Byard, Jaquan Brisker and Drew Dalman.
- LT Ozzy Trapilo is expected to miss the entire 2026-27 season with an injury.
Yes, but: The Bears still have their centerpiece — quarterback Caleb Williams — along with young playmakers Rome Odunze, Luther Burden and Colston Loveland.
- They've also added a few new faces in free agency, including safety Coby Bryant and linebacker Devin Bush.
Reality check: There are still glaring holes across the roster.
- Chicago has seven picks, including four in the top three rounds and No. 25 overall.
- Hitting on those selections is critical.
Here's where they could look for the first round pick:
Defensive line: The biggest need remains a dominant interior presence.
- The challenge: Top defensive tackles may be gone by No. 25.
Our pick: Caleb Banks. An absolute monster in the middle. He is pro-ready, although he missed a lot of time at Florida with injuries.
Offensive line: Trapilo's injury leaves the Bears thin at tackle.
- New head coach Ben Johnson will prioritize keeping Williams upright.
Our pick: Kadyn Proctor. The Alabama left tackle brings massive size and power.
Safety: Chicago still needs a reliable partner for Bryant on the back end.
Our pick: Dillon Thieneman. A versatile, explosive defender who could step in early — if he's still available.
Wide receiver: Don't rule out another playmaker after moving on from Moore.
Our pick: Omar Cooper Jr. A physical receiver who thrives in contested situations.
Edge rusher: Pass rush remains the defense's Achilles' heel. Montez Sweat has been the lone consistent threat.
Our pick: Akheem Mesidor. A productive college pass rusher with strong upside.
The bottom line: GM Ryan Poles' draft will define how quickly this retooled roster can contend again.
What's next: The NFL draft begins next Thursday at 7pm.