The Chicago Bears are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft with seven picks, including No. 25 overall. The article highlights the best draft picks from the Bears since 2016.
Key points
Chicago Bears have seven picks in the 2026 NFL Draft
Bears' first pick is No. 25 overall
General manager Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson are focused on roster needs
Highlighting best draft picks from 2016 to 2025
Cody Whitehair was the standout pick in 2016
Mentioned in this story
Ryan PolesBen Johnson
Chicago BearsCody WhitehairNFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft begins in just a few days, and the Chicago Bears will once again be looking for impactful players to develop as they look to stay competitive going into a new season. Armed with seven picks in total, including No. 25 overall and two picks in the second round, general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson will work to address key roster needs at multiple positions.
As is always the case with the draft, not every pick will be a hit. Some players will come and go without making much of an impact, but others could leave a lasting legacy, whether they are multi-year Pro Bowl talents or simply quality starters.
Every draft class has a standout player, and while things can change from year to year with more recent selections, we're going back in time to find out who stood out from previous drafts. Here are our picks for the best selections from every Bears draft dating back to 2016:
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Cody Whitehair #65 of the Chicago Bears looks on against the Denver Broncos during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field on October 01, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Cody Whitehair #65 of the Chicago Bears looks on against the Denver Broncos during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field on October 01, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
It's tough to decide between edge rusher Leonard Floyd and offensive lineman Cody Whitehair, but I'm going with the latter simply because Floyd's best seasons came after he left Chicago. The Bears found a dependable interior lineman with Whitehair, who started 118 games across eight seasons. He earned one Pro Bowl nod and was one of the better interior protectors until 2022, when his play began to diminish.
Q&A
Who were the best Chicago Bears draft picks from 2016 to 2025?
The article identifies standout players from each draft year, starting with Cody Whitehair in 2016.
What are the Chicago Bears' draft picks for the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Bears have seven picks in total for the 2026 NFL Draft, including the 25th overall pick and two second-round picks.
How does the Chicago Bears' draft strategy change each year?
The Bears' draft strategy evolves based on their roster needs and the talent available, aiming to find impactful players.
What positions do the Chicago Bears need to address in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Bears are looking to address key roster needs at multiple positions as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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2017: S Eddie Jackson
Fourth round, pick No. 112
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 25: Safety Eddie Jackson #4 of the Chicago Bears pumps up the crowd during the second half against the Houston Texans at Soldier Field on September 25, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 25: Safety Eddie Jackson #4 of the Chicago Bears pumps up the crowd during the second half against the Houston Texans at Soldier Field on September 25, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The final few seasons of Eddie Jackson's career in Chicago may have left some Bears fans with a sour taste in their mouths, but there's no denying what the ball-hawking safety could do early on. Jackson earned Pro Bowl honors in 2018 and 2019 as well as First-Team All-Pro in 2018. He changed games with how he was able to create takeaways and solidified the safety position in Chicago, a task that wasn't easy to do prior to his arrival.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 13: Roquan Smith #58 of the Chicago Bears reacts after a sack during the first quarter against the Washington Commanders at Soldier Field on October 13, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 13: Roquan Smith #58 of the Chicago Bears reacts after a sack during the first quarter against the Washington Commanders at Soldier Field on October 13, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
Roquan Smith was on his way to becoming the next great linebacker in Bears history. The former first-round pick did it all during his four and a half seasons in Chicago. Smith was a tackling machine, averaging 95 solo tackles per season, while also getting after the quarterback and creating turnovers. Due to a contract impasse, Smith was traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, where he continues to shine. Had he remained in Chicago, Smith would be inching closer and closer to legends like Dick Butkus, Mike Singletary, and Brian Urlacher.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 18: David Montgomery #32 of the Chicago Bears runs the ball during the second half in the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Soldier Field on December 18, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 18: David Montgomery #32 of the Chicago Bears runs the ball during the second half in the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Soldier Field on December 18, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Thanks to the blockbuster trade that landed Khalil Mack a year prior, the Bears didn't pick until the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Even then, they still needed to trade up to land their guy. Running back David Montgomery was easily the best selection from this draft, even if he never became the franchise bell cow that many imagined he could be. Montgomery only broke 1,000 yards once as a Bear, but he was a consistent runner that bounced off tacklers. Montgomery excelled with the Detroit Lions for a few years and is now playing for the Houston Texans.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 31: Jaylon Johnson #33 of the Chicago Bears reacts after a play during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field on December 31, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 31: Jaylon Johnson #33 of the Chicago Bears reacts after a play during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field on December 31, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Despite not having a first-round pick for the second year in a row, the Bears 2020 draft class was loaded, and it has aged like win. Cole Kmet and Darnell Mooney are still consistent producers and Jaylon Johnson is one of the better cornerbacks in the league. Johnson elevated his game in 2023 and enjoyed two Pro Bowl seasons. Expectations were high once again for him 2025, but injuries limited his snaps and production. The hope is he bounces back and returns to form at just 27 years old.
2021: QB Justin Fields
First round, pick No. 11
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 15: Justin Fields #1 of the Chicago Bears looks on during the second quarter in the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field on October 15, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 15: Justin Fields #1 of the Chicago Bears looks on during the second quarter in the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field on October 15, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The 2021 Bears draft class was a disappointment overall despite having plenty of hype at the time. The Bears traded up twice for players they believed would be cornerstones for a long time. Quarterback Justin Fields gets the slight nod over guard Teven Jenkins for his sensational playmaking ability that set multiple records while with the Bears. He was inconsistent as a passer but electric as a runner and scrambler. Jenkins, meanwhile, couldn't stay on the field due to injuries.
Nov 5, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Taysom Hill (7) blocks Chicago Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon (6) during the second half at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports ORG XMIT: IMAGN-710632 ORIG FILE ID: 20231105_tbs_la1_271.JPG
Nov 5, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Taysom Hill (7) blocks Chicago Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon (6) during the second half at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports ORG XMIT: IMAGN-710632 ORIG FILE ID: 20231105_tbs_la1_271.JPG
In his first year as Bears general manager, Ryan Poles did what his predecessors could not: hit on his first draft pick. Kyler Gordon has steadily developed into one of the better nickel cornerbacks in the NFL thanks to his innate ability to make plays at and near the line of scrimmage. Gordon is a versatile defender who needs to be accounted for when on the field. The only thing holding Gordon back are injury issues, which limited him to just in three regular season games in 2025, but you can't deny the impact he makes when healthy.
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
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
Poles' decision to pass on Jalen Carter in favor of Darnell Wright looks better and better by the year. Wright was a solid right tackle for the first couple of years of his career, but he took a massive leap in his development last season in part thanks to offensive line coach Dan Roushar and having consistency at right guard. Wright officially broke out as he helped solidify the offensive line, surrendering just three sacks and 19 pressures. For his efforts, Wright was named Second-Team All-Pro and is easily the crown jewel of the 2023 draft class.
2024: QB Caleb Williams
First round, pick No. 1
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
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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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Best Chicago Bears draft pick from every year since 2016
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
If there were any questions as to whether or not Caleb Williams was the correct choice at No. 1 overall in 2024, they were answered last year. Williams rebounded from an up-and-down rookie season to shine under Ben Johnson, setting a new Bears record with 3,942 passing yards while throwing 27 touchdowns. His penchant for late-game magic turned heads all over the world, and Williams helped lead the Bears to their first division title in seven years. The hope is Williams and fellow first-rounder Rome Odunze can continue to develop together, but the quarterback easily stands out as the top player from this group.
CINCINNATI, OHIO - NOVEMBER 02: Colston Loveland #84 of the Chicago Bears celebrates a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals in the game at Paycor Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO - NOVEMBER 02: Colston Loveland #84 of the Chicago Bears celebrates a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals in the game at Paycor Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
It wasn't love at first sight for many Bears fans at last year's draft when the team selected Colston Loveland with their first-round pick, but the talented tight end had them falling head over heels by season's end. Loveland got off to a slow start before taking over games midway through the year by becoming Williams' favorite target. His excellent route-running ability combined with sheer size and athleticism made him a matchup nightmare. Loveland set a record for most receiving yards by a rookie tight end in a postseason with 193 and led the Bears with 713 yards in the regular season. Even more impressive, though, is that Loveland stands out in what could be a legendary draft class alongside wide receiver Luther Burden, tackle Ozzy Trapilo, and running back Kyle Monangai.
