ESPN makes bold prediction for Bears' 2026 draft class

Chicago Bears' 2026 rookie draft class

2026 NFL Draft: Bears select Dillon Thieneman in first round (No. 25)

The 2026 class will be the one that puts the Bears over the top and into a Super Bowl. Quarterback Caleb Williams is the main reason for the Bears' success, but adding safety Dillon Thieneman and cornerback Malik Muhammad satisfies huge needs in the secondary, while center Logan Jones will be Williams' new best friend and bodyguard.

There's no doubt that this draft class was heavily influenced by head coach Ben Johnson, who found his center of the future and added a blocking tight end and playmaking receiver to his offense. But general manager Ryan Poles also made good on his promise -- to draft the best available and not select anyone who isn't a fit for what they're trying to accomplish.

Looking ahead, Thieneman has the potential to be a Pro Bowl safety and cornerstone on defense, Jones will be linked to quarterback Caleb Williams, Roush will help the Bears run game and even Day 3 pick Muhammad could wind up being a long-term starter down the line. Not to mention, there's plenty of potential with Thomas, Elliott and van den Berg.

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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears 2026 draft class: Bold prediction bodes well for Chicago