The Chicago Bears are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on adding a pass rusher to enhance their defense. With four picks in the Top 90, they aim to address long-standing needs at the position.
Key points
Chicago Bears focusing on pass rusher in 2026 NFL Draft
Four picks in Top 90 selections available
Montez Sweat is a key player on the defensive line
Dayo Odeyingbo suffered a torn Achilles last season
Austin Booker showed promise after returning from injury
Chicago BearsNFL Draft 2026
TheĀ 2026 NFL DraftĀ is just around the corner, and theĀ Chicago BearsĀ could look to add another pass rusher to bring in to help create depth behind Montez Sweat, while also filling a need that has plagued the franchise for several years.
Last season, the team signed Dayo Odeyingbo in free agency, but lost him early in the year to a torn Achilles, which provided another reason for urgency at the position coming into the 2026 season. Meanwhile, Austin Booker missed the beginning of the season before returning and showing promise opposite Sweat.
With four picks in the Top 90 selections of the draft, Chicago has an opportunity to bring in the highest talent with a best player available strategy. There's been plenty of roster turnover this offseason, and the Bears are expected to spend a good amount of their draft capital on addressing their defense, in one form or another.
Unknown date & location, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) carries the ball during the 1987 season. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 1972; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus (51) in action against the Chicago Bears at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
Q&A
What position will the Chicago Bears target in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Chicago Bears are expected to target a pass rusher in the 2026 NFL Draft.
How many draft picks do the Chicago Bears have in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Chicago Bears have four picks in the Top 90 selections of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Who are the current edge rushers on the Chicago Bears roster?
The current edge rushers include Montez Sweat, Dayo Odeyingbo, and Austin Booker.
Why is there urgency for the Bears to draft a pass rusher in 2026?
There is urgency due to Dayo Odeyingbo's injury last season and the need to strengthen the defensive line.
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Nov 24, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears lineman Dan Hampton defensive end Dan Hampton (99) in action against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 1969; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Gayle Sayers (40) in action against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Bears 20-17. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears celebrates after defeating the Carolina Panthers at Soldier Field in October.
Unknown date; Los Angeles, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears tight end Mike Ditka (89) on the bench agains the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darryl Norenberg-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon (9) throws the ball against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2019; Landover, MD, USA; Chicago Bears guard Kyle Long (75) stands on the field during the first half against the Washington Redskins at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 2, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Oct 30, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith (58) in action during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
26 Jan 1986: Quarterback Steve Fuller #4 of the New England Patriots prepares to pass as teammate offensive lineman Jim Covert #74 covers during Super Bowl XX game with the Chicago Bears at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Bear
Nov 11, 2007; Oakland, CA, USA; Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson (32) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland, CA. Mandatory Credit: Phil Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 8, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (15) catches a touchdown during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images
Jan 7, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright (58) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris (91) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2008; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (8) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Soldier Field. The Titans beat the Bears 21-14. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 16, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Greg Olsen (82) after the 2011 NFC divisional playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct. 27, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Wilber Marshall (58) in action against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. The Bears beat the Vikings 27-9. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 1986; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears receiver Willie Gault (83) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears defensive tackle William Perry (72) interacts with Ron Rivera (59) on the field against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Otis Wilson (55) warms up prior to Super Bowl XX against the New England Patriots at the Superdome. The Bears would defeat the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 1993; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim Harbaugh (4) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY NETWORK
Oct 25, 1987; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears full back Neal Anderson (35) takes a hand off from Jim McMahon (9) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY NETWORK
Aug 19, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White (11) looks on prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 15, 2019; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Leonard Floyd (94) reacts to a call in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2020; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) throws a pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second quarter at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
04 Aug 2001: Cade McNown #8 of the Chicago Bears looks for the open man during the NFL pre-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. The Bears defeated the Bengals 16-13 in overtime. DIGITAL IMAGE Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel/ALLSPORT
Sep 13, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) puts his hands up after a play during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Unknown date & location, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) carries the ball during the 1987 season. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
1 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Unknown date & location, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) carries the ball during the 1987 season. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
2 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct 29, 1972; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus (51) in action against the Chicago Bears at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
3 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 24, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears lineman Dan Hampton defensive end Dan Hampton (99) in action against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
4 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 28, 1969; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Gayle Sayers (40) in action against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Bears 20-17. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
5 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
6 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears celebrates after defeating the Carolina Panthers at Soldier Field in October.
7 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Unknown date; Los Angeles, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears tight end Mike Ditka (89) on the bench agains the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darryl Norenberg-USA TODAY Sports
8 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon (9) throws the ball against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
9 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 23, 2019; Landover, MD, USA; Chicago Bears guard Kyle Long (75) stands on the field during the first half against the Washington Redskins at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
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2026 NFL draft preview: Where Chicago Bears stand at tight end
Nov 2, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
11 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct 30, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith (58) in action during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
12 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
26 Jan 1986: Quarterback Steve Fuller #4 of the New England Patriots prepares to pass as teammate offensive lineman Jim Covert #74 covers during Super Bowl XX game with the Chicago Bears at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Bear
13 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 11, 2007; Oakland, CA, USA; Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson (32) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland, CA. Mandatory Credit: Phil Carter-USA TODAY Sports
14 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 8, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (15) catches a touchdown during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images
15 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 7, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright (58) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
16 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris (91) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
17 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 9, 2008; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (8) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Soldier Field. The Titans beat the Bears 21-14. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
18 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 16, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Greg Olsen (82) after the 2011 NFC divisional playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
19 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct. 27, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Wilber Marshall (58) in action against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. The Bears beat the Vikings 27-9. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
20 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 9, 1986; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears receiver Willie Gault (83) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
21 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears defensive tackle William Perry (72) interacts with Ron Rivera (59) on the field against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
22 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Otis Wilson (55) warms up prior to Super Bowl XX against the New England Patriots at the Superdome. The Bears would defeat the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 26, 1993; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim Harbaugh (4) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY NETWORK
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct 25, 1987; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears full back Neal Anderson (35) takes a hand off from Jim McMahon (9) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY NETWORK
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Aug 19, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White (11) looks on prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 15, 2019; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Leonard Floyd (94) reacts to a call in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 27, 2020; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) throws a pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second quarter at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
04 Aug 2001: Cade McNown #8 of the Chicago Bears looks for the open man during the NFL pre-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. The Bears defeated the Bengals 16-13 in overtime. DIGITAL IMAGE Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel/ALLSPORT
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 13, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) puts his hands up after a play during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
We're examining an edge rusher Chicago can target in each round of the draft. These players share a combination of athleticism, length, and the potential to develop into disruptive pass rushers in Dennis Allen's defense. A very deep and talented edge rusher class will present the Bears with plenty of opportunity to address one of their biggest needs.
Round 1: Zion Young, Missouri
Oct 18, 2025; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive end Zion Young (9) moves in to tackle Auburn Tigers quarterback Jackson Arnold (11) during the fourth quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-Imagn Images
Oct 18, 2025; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive end Zion Young (9) moves in to tackle Auburn Tigers quarterback Jackson Arnold (11) during the fourth quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-Imagn Images
Because of their late pick in the first round, Chicago will not have a chance to grab one of the premier pass rushers in this class, unless a dramatic slide happens. Insert Zion Young into their selection at No. 25 in the first round, where some draft pundits believe Young has the potential to crack into the first round but could also slide into the second. Young excelled in run defense while playing for Missouri last season and has been praised for his high motor and ability to be a three-down defender.
Round 2: Malachi Lawrence, UCF
UCF defensive end Malachi Lawrence (51) tackles ASU quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) as he scrambles during a game at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Nov. 9, 2024.
UCF defensive end Malachi Lawrence (51) tackles ASU quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) as he scrambles during a game at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Nov. 9, 2024.
Having two picks in the second round could allow Chicago to wait for Malachi Lawrence to fall to them, if he's still on the board at that time. Playing for UCF in 2025, Lawrence had 7.0 sacks and 40 quarterback pressures, earning First-Team All-Big 12 for his stellar play, that also elevated his draft stock. He has as much potential as others who will get taken in the first round, but could be a gift that falls to the second round.
March 25, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Defensive lineman LT Overton does a drill for scouts during Pro Day in the Hank Crisp Indoor Practice Facility at the University of Alabama.
March 25, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Defensive lineman LT Overton does a drill for scouts during Pro Day in the Hank Crisp Indoor Practice Facility at the University of Alabama.
A very big and physical player at the edge position, LT Overton measures at 6'5" and around 280 pounds who has surprising speed at his build. Another edge rusher who can help improve the Bears' run defense and get to opposing quarterbacks with his bull rush power moves.
Round 4: Tyreak Sapp, Florida
Nov 29, 2025; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Tyreak Sapp (94) rushes to tackle while Florida State Seminoles offensive lineman Micah Pettus (57) blocks during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Nov 29, 2025; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Tyreak Sapp (94) rushes to tackle while Florida State Seminoles offensive lineman Micah Pettus (57) blocks during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Tyreak Sapp's best collegiate season came in 2024, where he had 46 tackles, 7.0 sacks, and 13 tackles for loss as he showed a knack for getting through double teams. This edge rusher class has plenty of guys who can not only get after the quarterback, but are productive in their rush defense, which is another element that Chicago desperately needs to address.
Round 5: Nadame Tucker, Western Michigan
Western Michigan defensive lineman Nadame Tucker (11) enters the field before the MAC Championship in Detroit on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.
Western Michigan defensive lineman Nadame Tucker (11) enters the field before the MAC Championship in Detroit on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.
The Bears do not have a fifth-round pick, but if there any trades on draft weekend, Nadame Tucker could be a name to watch in the later rounds of the draft. He's got a very quick first step for the position as is someone who came from community college to Western Michigan, where he put himself on the map after the 2025 season. Totaling 14.5 sacks for Western Michigan, Tucker is a guy who may have untapped potential that the Bears can unlock if he falls to them.
Round 6: TJ Guy, Michigan
Aug 30, 2025; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines edge TJ Guy (4) celebrates a fumble recovery in the first half against the New Mexico Lobos at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Aug 30, 2025; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines edge TJ Guy (4) celebrates a fumble recovery in the first half against the New Mexico Lobos at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Most of TJ Guy's career was spent as a rotational piece for the Michigan Wolverines, who saw his best production later in his collegiate career. He lacks top athleticism and was never a dominant threat, but adds depth to the position and could make an impact on special teams.
Round 7: Michael Heldman, Central Michigan
Listed at 6'4" and 260 pounds, Michael Heldman has had a breakout senior season, bringing some NFL draft considerations.
Listed at 6'4" and 260 pounds, Michael Heldman has had a breakout senior season, bringing some NFL draft considerations.
A fifth-year senior who had 10.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss, Michael Heldman is the type of intriguing player that the Bears could find as a late-round gem. General manager Ryan Poles has shown a knack for find some late round talent, including running back Kyle Monangai last season. Heldman is another player who fits into the high-motor category and his sack production in college shows he could be an asset if he makes the roster.
