Dillon Thieneman Was the Perfect Pick for the Bears’ Defense

Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive back Dillon Thieneman is selected by the Chicago Bears as the number 25 pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

With the 25th pick in the draft, the Chicago Bears selected Oregon’s safety Dillon Thieneman. Throughout his three-year college career, the first two of which were at Purdue, the final at Oregon, he showed up he played in every game, and he finished his career with a hearty 306 total tackles. Although at times he can be inconsistent, his versatility and speed are Chicago needs.

As a Bear, Thieneman will thrive and fit in with Dennis Allen’s defensive strategies.

Dillon Thieneman Is Built for Speed

Allen has built his role as defensive coordinator through his ability to mix up players and their positions. With the additions of Coby Bryant from Seattle and now Thieneman, Allen has the speed and agility he needs to use them as vital tools for downfield coverage.

General Manager Ryan Poles expressed his excitement for Thieneman joining the team: “His ability to close on the football in the run and pass stood out really quick,” he said. “Then on top of that, you have some versatility. If he has to, he can go over and play a little bit of nickel. He can play free, he can play strong.”

Beyond his physical tools, Thieneman’s instincts and football IQ could allow him to contribute early. His ability to read quarterbacks and react quickly to developing plays gives Chicago another layer of flexibility in coverage, something that will be crucial against today’s pass-heavy offenses. If he adapts quickly to the speed of the NFL, his role could expand sooner rather than later.